Proposed Tiger Reserves in India

Largest and Smallest National Parks in India

Largest and Smallest Tiger Reserves in India (By Area)

Description of National Parks, Tiger Reserves & Major Wildlife Sanctuaries

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Campbell Bay & Galathea National Parks (Great Nicobar)

• • These two national parks are located in Great Nicobar Island, the southernmost and largest island of the Nicobar group. They form integral parts of the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, which is recognized for its rich biodiversity and high endemism.
  • A 12-km-wide forest buffer zone separates Campbell Bay and Galathea, ensuring a natural transition between ecosystems and acting as a wildlife corridor.
  • Galathea National Park holds the distinction of being the southernmost national park of India.
  • 🌿 Vegetation: Dominated by tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen rainforests, rich in native flora and home to several rare plant species.
  • 🐢 Major Fauna:
    • • Giant Robber Crab – The world’s largest terrestrial arthropod.
      • Nicobar Megapode – A ground-dwelling bird that buries its eggs in mounds.
      • Nicobar Pigeon – A near-threatened bird species and close relative of the extinct dodo.
      • Marine Fauna: Includes nesting sites for turtles such as Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, Leatherback, Malayan box turtle, and the critically endangered Giant Leatherback turtle, for which Galathea is a vital nesting ground.

🌊 Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (South Andaman)

• • Established in 1983, this park comprises 15 islands in the Wandoor region of South Andaman. It is renowned for its coral diversity and marine biodiversity.
  • It was created primarily for the protection of marine ecosystems, especially coral reefs, mangroves, and nesting sea turtles.
  • 🐚 Coral Reefs: Most are fringing reefs, found close to the shoreline, providing vital habitats for marine life.
  • 🐢 Marine Fauna: Supports green sea turtles, Olive Ridleys, reef fish, mollusks, and other endangered marine species.
  • It is an important marine biodiversity hotspot and an ecotourism destination.

🏞️ Mount Harriet National Park (Renamed Mount Manipur National Park)

• • Located near Port Blair, it encompasses the third-highest peak (Mount Harriet, 383 m) in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago.
  • Renamed Mount Manipur National Park in 2021 to honour the freedom fighters from Manipur who were exiled to the islands during British rule.
  • 🌿 Vegetation: Comprises tropical evergreen forests, hilltop evergreen forests, and littoral forests.
  • 🦋 It is a recognized butterfly hotspot, hosting a variety of endemic butterfly species.
  • 🐾 Fauna: Includes Andaman wild pig (an endangered endemic species), saltwater crocodile, several turtle species, and robber crabs.

🌴 Rani Jhansi Marine National Park

• • Situated in Ritchie’s Archipelago near the Button Islands in South Andaman district.
  • 🌱 Vegetation: A mix of mangroves, evergreen forests, and coastal vegetation.
  • 🦇 Major Terrestrial Fauna:
    • • Fruit-eating bat is a key species here, playing a crucial role in seed dispersal and pollination.
      • Also found are spotted deer, monitor lizards, and water lizards.
  • 🐬 Marine Fauna:
    • • Inhabited by dugongs (India’s national marine mammal), dolphins, sea turtles, and blue whales.
      • The park supports rich coral diversity and pristine marine ecosystems.

🏔️ Saddle Peak National Park

• • Located in North Andaman, it features Saddle Peak (732 m), the highest point in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
  • The park includes diverse altitudinal vegetation zones from coastal forests to hilltop forests.
  • 🐦 Major Fauna:
    • • Andaman wild pig, an endangered endemic species.
      • Andaman imperial pigeon, a near-threatened bird.
      • Saltwater crocodiles, dolphins, and whales are also reported in the coastal zones of the park.
  • The park is an important biodiversity zone and part of the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve’s ecological continuum.

🏝️ Important Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) in A&N Islands

🔥 Barren Island Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Barren Island is home to the only active volcano in India and is part of the volcanic arc in the Andaman Sea.
  • It supports limited biodiversity due to volcanic activity but is ecologically significant for geological and marine studies.

🌋 Narcondam Island Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Narcondam Island is a dormant volcanic island and an Important Bird Area (IBA).
  • It is home to the Narcondam hornbill, an endemic and endangered species, found nowhere else in the world.

Andhra Pradesh

Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve (TR)

• • Overview: The Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve is the largest tiger reserve in India, sprawling across the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. It covers a vast area within the Nallamala Hills, forming a critical corridor for wildlife in the Eastern Ghats.
  • Geography: The Krishna River meanders through the reserve, with both the Srisailam and Nagarjunasagar reservoirs located within its boundaries. These water bodies are crucial for sustaining the ecosystem.
  • Vegetation: The reserve is characterized by tropical dry mixed deciduous forests, interspersed with scrub and grasslands.
  • Major Fauna: It is home to significant populations of Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris, Endangered), Indian leopard (Panthera pardus), Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata, Endangered), spotted deer or chital (Axis axis, Least Concern), sambar deer (Rusa unicolor, Vulnerable), blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), Indian gazelle or chinkara (Gazella bennettii), four-horned antelope or chausingha (Tetracerus quadricornis, Vulnerable), and mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris, Vulnerable).

Papikonda National Park

• • Location: Situated in the Papi Hills of the Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh, this park is recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).
  • Vegetation: The park has dense forest cover, forming an important ecological zone within the Eastern Ghats.
  • Major Mammals: Includes Bengal tiger, leopard, striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), Indian gaur (Bos gaurus), sloth bear (Melursus ursinus), barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak), and endemic species like kanchu mekha (a dwarf goat unique to the region).
  • Avifauna: Notable bird species include the common peacock (Pavo cristatus) and red junglefowl (Gallus gallus).
  • Reptilian Fauna: Indian golden gecko (Calodactylodes aureus), monitor lizard (Varanus spp.).
  • Primates: Remarkably, both Rhesus macaque (typically found north of the Godavari River) and Bonnet macaque (south of Godavari) are present, indicating ecological overlap.
  • Threats: The Polavaram irrigation project poses a major threat as it will submerge parts of the park. Deforestation due to Podu shifting cultivation is another concern.

Rajiv Gandhi (Rameswaram) National Park

• • Location: This park lies on the northern bank of the Penna River in Kadapa district. It features predominantly sandy terrain.
  • Vegetation: Tropical dry deciduous forests dominate the landscape.
  • Major Fauna: Spotted deer, various species of mongoose.
  • Avifauna: Includes little egrets (Egretta garzetta) and various species of parakeets.
  • Herpetofauna: Amphibians like bull frogs; reptiles include various species of burrowing snakes such as Russell’s viper, earth boas, and John’s sand boa.

Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park

• • Location: Spread across the Seshachalam and Tirumala hills in the Eastern Ghats, this protected area is part of the Seshachalam Hills Biosphere Reserve.
  • Vegetation: Comprises dry deciduous and moist deciduous forest types.
  • Flora: Rich in red sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus), a rare and highly valuable tree species.
  • Fauna: Includes species such as slender loris, leopard, sloth bear, mouse deer, chausingha, and the Indian giant squirrel (Ratufa indica).
  • Avifauna: Grey hornbill, pied kingfisher, and other Eastern Ghats endemics.
  • Reptilian Fauna: Indian golden gecko.
  • Threats: Urban expansion, tourism, and illegal quarrying activities pose ecological threats.

Major Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) in Andhra Pradesh

Coringa WLS

• • Located in the Godavari estuary, this sanctuary hosts a mix of mangrove forests and dry deciduous vegetation.
  • Fauna: Smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata, Vulnerable), olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea, Vulnerable), and estuarine (saltwater) crocodile (Crocodylus porosus, Least Concern).
  • Avifauna: Critically endangered species like the white-backed vulture (Gyps bengalensis) and Indian vulture (Gyps indicus) are found here.

Gundla Brahmeswaram WLS

• • Located on the periphery of the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam TR within the Nallamala Hills. It supports a vital population of tigers and contributes to the tiger corridor.

Koundinya WLS

• • Located along the Andhra–Tamil Nadu border. It serves as a crucial elephant corridor, supporting migratory movement of elephants and reducing man-animal conflict.

Kolleru WLS (Bird Sanctuary)

• • Encompasses Kolleru Lake, a large natural eutrophic freshwater lake located between the Godavari and Krishna river basins. It is a major wintering ground for migratory birds.

Krishna WLS

• • A mangrove ecosystem located in the Krishna delta, important for coastal biodiversity conservation.

Pulicat Lake WLS (Bird Sanctuary)

• • Shared by Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, Pulicat Lake is India’s second-largest brackish water lagoon after Chilika. It is a critical stopover for migratory birds.

Rollapadu WLS (Bird Sanctuary)

• • Established primarily to protect the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) and the endangered Lesser Florican (Sypheotides indicus).

Sri Lankamalleswara WLS

• • Situated in the southern part of the Nallamala Hills, this sanctuary is noted for being the last known habitat of the critically endangered Jerdon’s courser (Rhinoptilus bitorquatus).
  • Threats: Smuggling of red sanders continues to be a major threat.

Sri Penusila Narasimha WLS

• • Known for its unique dry evergreen forests, a vegetation type rare in India, found predominantly along the Coromandel Coast in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry.

Other Notable Sanctuaries

• • Kambalakonda WLS: Located near Visakhapatnam, serves as a biodiversity hotspot in an urban landscape.
  • Nellapattu WLS (Bird Sanctuary): Situated in Nellore district, it is an important nesting site for migratory and resident bird species.

Arunachal Pradesh

Kamlang Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Overview: The Kamlang Tiger Reserve, named after the Kamlang River, lies in the Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh. It is nestled between the Lohit River and the renowned Namdapha National Park, forming part of the rich forested tracts of eastern Arunachal.
  • Topography and Vegetation: The terrain ranges from lowland tropical forests to alpine vegetation at higher altitudes. The lower slopes are dominated by wet tropical evergreen forests, while the upper regions transition into alpine zones.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Carnivores: Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, clouded leopard, marbled cat, snow leopard.
      • Herbivores: Asian elephant and various ungulates.
  • Primates: The reserve is home to diverse non-human primates including capped langur, rhesus macaque, stump-tailed macaque, Assamese macaque, Eastern hoolock gibbon (India’s only ape), and Bengal slow loris.
  • Significance: Kamlang TR acts as an ecological bridge between the Eastern Himalayas and the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.

Mouling National Park

• • Location: This park lies in the Upper Siang district and is named after the Mouling Peak. It forms a vital component of the Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve, along with the Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Vegetation: Ranges from tropical forests at lower elevations to moist temperate forests in higher altitudes, reflecting rich ecological diversity.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Mammals: Takin (the state animal of Arunachal Pradesh), Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, red panda (endangered and arboreal), barking deer, Himalayan serow.
  • Ecological Importance: The park provides critical habitat connectivity for species migration across the Eastern Himalayas and maintains ecosystem balance.

Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve

• • Overview: Located in the Changlang district, Namdapha is the largest protected area in the Eastern Himalayas and one of the richest in biodiversity in India.
  • Geography: Nestled between the Dapha Bum range of the Mishmi Hills and the Patkai range, the park is crossed by the Noa-Dihing River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra that originates from the Chaukan Pass.
  • Vegetation: The park hosts a vertical gradient of forest types—from lowland tropical evergreen to montane temperate broadleaf forests.
  • Unique Feature: It is the only national park in the world to support all four species of big cats—Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, snow leopard, and clouded leopard.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • • quirrel (Biswamoyopterus biswasi), found nowhere else in the world.
  • Primates: Includes the Western hoolock gibbon (India’s only ape), stump-tailed macaque, slow loris, capped langur, Assamese macaque, and rhesus macaque.
  • Ecological Importance: Recognized as part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot, Namdapha’s altitudinal diversity fosters extraordinary species richness.

Pakke (Pakhui) Tiger Reserve

• • Location: Located in the East Kameng district in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, this reserve shares borders with Assam’s Nameri National Park and Arunachal’s Eaglenest WLS and Sessa Orchid Sanctuary.
  • Hydrology: Bounded by the Kameng River (west and north) and Pakke River (east), these rivers contribute to the rich alluvial and forest ecosystems.
  • Vegetation: Includes semi-evergreen, tropical evergreen, and Himalayan broadleaf forests.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Big Cats: Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, clouded leopard.
      • Other Mammals: Elephant, barking deer, gaur, sambar.
  • Primates: Capped langur, rhesus macaque, Assamese macaque, stump-tailed macaque.
  • Reptiles: Assam roofed turtle (Pangshura sylhetensis), a rare and endangered species.
  • Conservation Initiative: Known for the Hornbill Nest Adoption Programme, a community-based conservation effort to protect nesting habitats of hornbills.
  • Ecological Significance: Part of the Kameng Elephant Reserve, Pakke plays a vital role in the conservation of Eastern Himalayan biodiversity.

Important Wildlife Sanctuaries in Arunachal Pradesh

Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Lies adjacent to Sessa Orchid Sanctuary and Pakhui Tiger Reserve across the Kameng River. It is part of the Kameng Elephant Reserve.
  • Biodiversity: Known for exceptional bird diversity including endemic and rare species like the Bugun liocichla.

Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Part of: Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve.
  • Major Fauna: Includes rare Himalayan fauna such as takin, red goral, and red panda.
  • Ecological Role: Provides connectivity between temperate and alpine ecosystems in northeastern Arunachal Pradesh.

Sessa Orchid Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Adjacent to: Eaglenest WLS.
  • Specialty: Famous for a wide diversity of orchids; over 200 species have been recorded here.
  • Floral Significance: Recognized as a key habitat for orchid conservation in India.

Assam

General Highlights

• • Non-Human Primates: Golden langur, Assamese macaque, rhesus macaque, Bengal slow loris, hoolock gibbon.
  • Notable Avifauna: Bengal florican, greater and lesser adjutants, spot-billed pelican, white-winged wood duck, Baer’s pochard, greater spotted eagle, Sarus crane.

National Parks & Biosphere Reserves

Dihing Patkai National Park

    Located in the foothills of the Patkai Hills, this park is often referred to as the “Jeypore Rainforest” and comprises the largest stretch of lowland tropical rainforest in India.

• • River System: The Dihing River flows through the park.
  • Key Facts:
    • • Nearby are the Digboi Oil Refinery (Asia’s oldest) and Lido Coal Mines.
      • Forms part of the larger Dihing Patkai Elephant Reserve.
  • Flora: Assam Valley tropical wet evergreen forest with a multi-layered canopy.
  • Fauna: Elephant, tiger, leopard, clouded leopard, golden cat, fishing cat, marbled cat, hog deer, sloth bear.
  • Avifauna: Oriental darter, lesser adjutant, greater spotted eagle, hornbills, hill myna.
  • Threats: Illegal coal mining, oil exploration, tea plantations, and deforestation.

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park & Biosphere Reserve

        Surrounded by the Brahmaputra, Lohit, and Dibru rivers, this park is renowned for its aquatic biodiversity and grassland ecosystem.

• • Unique Feature: Known for feral horses—descendants of army horses from World War II.
  • Vegetation: Includes wet evergreen, semi-evergreen, deciduous, swamp, and littoral forests.
  • Fauna: Bengal tiger, leopard, clouded leopard, sloth bear, dhole, Gangetic dolphin, elephant, sambar, hog deer, barking deer.

Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve

       A UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the Brahmaputra River in the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot.

• • Special Recognition: Holds 2/3rd of the global population of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros.
  • Vegetation: Includes alluvial grasslands, tropical moist deciduous, semi-evergreen forests, and savanna woodlands.
  • Flora: Elephant grass, spear grass, cotton tree, elephant apple.
  • Fauna:
    • • Big Five: One-horned rhino (VU), Royal Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, wild water buffalo (EN), swamp deer.
      • Other species: Fishing cat, civets, pangolins, sloth bear.
  • Threats: Seasonal flooding and encroachment.

Manas National Park, Tiger Reserve, and Biosphere Reserve

       Located in the Himalayan foothills, Manas is contiguous with Bhutan’s Royal Manas NP and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• • River: The Manas River flows through the park.
  • Biodiversity: Formed by bhabar-terai ecosystems and riverine succession.
  • Vegetation: Semi-evergreen, deciduous forests, grasslands, and savanna woodland.
  • Fauna: Hispid hare, pygmy hog (EN), wild water buffalo (EN), rhinoceros (reintroduced), elephants, sambar, Chinese pangolin, clouded leopard.
  • Avifauna: Bengal florican (largest population), great hornbills, pelicans, eagles, herons.

Nameri National Park & Tiger Reserve

      Situated at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Nameri shares boundaries with Arunachal Pradesh’s Pakke Tiger Reserve.

• • Rivers: Kameng River (south), shares corridor with Sonai-Rupai WLS.
  • Flora: Ajar, hollock, nahor, and various orchids.
  • Fauna: Tiger, leopard, gaur, dhole, marbled cat, capped langur, Indian giant squirrel.
  • Avifauna: White-winged wood duck (EN).
  • Threats: Logging, poaching, human-elephant conflict.

Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park

       Also a Tiger Reserve, located on the north bank of the Brahmaputra and bordered by the Pachnoi, Belsiri, and Dhansiri Rivers.

• • Ecosystem: Part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.
  • Vegetation: Moist deciduous, swamp forest, alluvial and savannah grasslands.
  • Fauna: Indian rhino (VU), pygmy hog (EN), tiger, elephant, Gangetic dolphin (EN), pangolin (EN).
  • Threats: Encroachment, poaching, habitat fragmentation.

Raimona National Park

Located near the Bhutan border, this is Assam’s newest national park.

• • Boundaries: Sankosh River (west), Saralbhanga River (east), Indo-Bhutan border (north), Ripu Reserve Forest (south).
  • Vegetation: Moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forest.
  • Fauna: Golden langur (mascot of Bodoland), clouded leopard (VU), tiger, elephant, gaur, wild buffalo, chital.
  • Avifauna: White-bellied heron, Oriental darter, Bengal florican, hill myna.

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS)

• • Barak Bhuban WLS (Proposed): In Barak Valley; rich in primate diversity including pig-tailed and stump-tailed macaques.
  • Barnadi WLS: Near Bhutan border; critical habitat for hispid hare and pygmy hog.
  • Burachapari WLS: South of the Brahmaputra; home to the critically endangered Bengal florican.
  • Chakrasila WLS: Important refuge for golden langur, after Manas.
  • Deepor Beel WLS (Ramsar Site): A freshwater lake west of Guwahati, formed in an old Brahmaputra channel.
  • Dihing Patkai WLS: Now part of Dihing Patkai NP; river originates from Patkai Hills.
  • Garampani WLS: Adjacent to Nambor WLS; noted for hot springs and waterfalls.
  • Hollongapar Gibbon WLS: Exclusive habitat for India’s only apes—hoolock gibbons and Bengal slow loris.
  • Lawkhowa WLS: Between Kaziranga and Orang; important for rhinos and wild buffaloes.
  • Marat Longri WLS: In Karbi Anglong; forms part of the Dhansiri-Lungding Elephant Reserve.
  • Nambor & Nambor-Doigrung WLS: Together with Garampani WLS, part of the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong ER.
  • Pabitora WLS: Known as “Mini Kaziranga”; supports high rhino density; translocation site under IRV 2020.
  • Pani-Dihing WLS (Important Bird Area): Near Hollongapar; key for bird conservation.
  • Sonai-Rupai WLS: Adjoins Pakke TR and Nameri NP; a key corridor.
  • Others:
    • • Amchang WLS: On Guwahati’s outskirts.
      • Barail WLS: Barail Hills, southern Assam.
      • East Karbi Anglong WLS: Located near Diphu.

Bihar

Valmiki National Park, Tiger Reserve, and Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Northwestern Bihar, in the West Champaran district, nestled in the Siwalik foothills along the Indo-Nepal border.
  • River Systems:
    • • Gandak River (known as Narayani in Nepal) forms the western boundary of the park.
      • Harha-Masan River system, originating within the park, later joins to form the Burhi Gandak River further south.
  • Special Status:
    • • Only National Park in Bihar.
      • Designated as both a Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary.

Ecological Significance

• • Part of the Terai Arc Landscape (TAL), a critical tiger conservation landscape shared with Nepal.
  • Provides connectivity to Chitwan National Park in Nepal, aiding in transboundary wildlife movement.

Vegetation Types

• • Moist Deciduous Forests
  • Semi-evergreen Patches
  • Alluvial Grasslands & Savannahs
  • Freshwater Swamps and Wetlands

Major Fauna

• • Carnivores: Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, sloth bear, wild dog (dhole).
  • Herbivores: Sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boar, blue bull (nilgai), Indian bison (gaur).
  • Primates: Rhesus macaque, common langur.
  • Other species: Indian python, monitor lizard, and diverse fish and amphibian populations in swamps.

Avifauna

• • The wetlands and forests support a wide range of birds, including:
    • • Peafowl, jungle fowl
      • Various species of parakeets, woodpeckers, eagles, and migratory waterbirds

Conservation Challenges

• • Human-wildlife conflict, illegal grazing, and poaching.
  • Flooding and seasonal migration pose management challenges.
  • Pressure from nearby agricultural settlements and developmental activities.

Valmiki National Park, Tiger Reserve, and Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: West Champaran district; foothills of Siwaliks, bordering Nepal.
  • Rivers: Gandak River (west), Harha-Masan river system (originates here).
  • Ecosystems: Moist deciduous, semi-evergreen, grasslands, swamps, and wetlands.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Big mammals: Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, Indian gaur, leopard, clouded leopard.
      • Bears: Indian sloth bear, Himalayan black bear.
      • Others: Barking deer, spotted deer, sambar, hog deer, Indian flying fox.
  • Communities: Dominated by the Tharu Tribe, a Scheduled Tribe.

Wildlife Sanctuaries of Bihar

1. Bhimbandh WLS

• • Location: South of the Ganga River; at the northern edge of Chota Nagpur Plateau, west of Santhal Pargana.
  • Known for: Natural hot water springs and dense forests.

2. Gautam Buddha WLS

• • Location: Spans parts of Bihar and Jharkhand.
  • Significance: Forested hilly terrain, rich in biodiversity.

3. Kaimur WLS

• • Location: Eastern Vindhyan Range.
  • Special Status: Largest WLS in Bihar; important tiger corridor.
  • Landscape: Scrublands, plateaus, waterfalls.

Wetland and Bird Sanctuaries

4. Kanwar Jheel WLS (Ramsar Site)

• • Location: Begusarai district.
  • Significance:
    • • Asia’s largest freshwater oxbow lake.
      • Larger in area than Keoladeo Ghana NP (Bharatpur).

 Notable Avifauna:

• • White-backed vulture (CR)
  • Long-billed vulture (CR)

5. Udaipur WLS

• • Location: Floodplains of the Gandak River.
  • Type: Oxbow lake wetland ecosystem.

6. Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin WLS

• • Location: 60 km stretch of the Ganga from Sultanganj to Kahalgaon, Bhagalpur district.
  • Significance:
    • • Dedicated to the conservation of Gangetic dolphin (EN), India’s national aquatic animal.
      • Important aquatic biodiversity hotspot.

Other Notable Sanctuaries

• • Barela Jheel (Salim Ali Bird WLS): Migratory bird habitat.
  • Kusheshwar Asthan Bird WLS: Near River Kosi and Kanwar Lake; bird habitat.
  • Nagi Dam & Nakti Dam WLS: Twin bird sanctuaries in Jamui district.
  • Pant (Rajgir) WLS: In the historic Rajgir region (Nalanda district).

Chhattisgarh

🐯 Tiger Reserves (TR) & National Parks (NP)

1. Achanakmar NP, TR, WLS

• • Location: Chhattisgarh & Madhya Pradesh; part of Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve.
  • Connectivity: Linked to Kanha TR via Kanha–Achanakmar Corridor.
  • Vegetation: Deciduous forests.
  • Flora: Sal, bamboo.
  • Fauna: Bengal tiger, leopard, gaur, chital, nilgai, blackbuck, chinkara, four-horned antelope, muntjac.

2. Sanjay (Guru Ghasidas) NP, Sanjay-Dubri TR

• • Location: Border of Chhattisgarh & Madhya Pradesh.
  • Named after: Guru Ghasidas (Satnami sect).
  • Terrain: Narmada Valley.
  • Vegetation: Dry deciduous forests; dominant sal trees.
  • Fauna: Tiger, leopard, spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, nilgai, chinkara, monitor lizard.

3. Indravati TR, NP

• • River: Indravati River (northern boundary).
  • Special Status: Habitat of wild water buffalo (EN).
  • Vegetation: Tropical moist & dry deciduous.
  • Flora: Bamboo, sal, teak.
  • Fauna: Tiger, gaur, blackbuck, chausingha, sambar, chital, pangolins, rhesus macaques.
  • Avifauna: Bastar hill myna (LC).
  • Reptiles: Freshwater crocodile.

4. Kanger Valley NP

• • Location: Bastar region; named after Kanger River.
  • Features: Limestone caves (e.g., Kotumsar).
  • Vegetation: Sal, teak, bamboo.
  • Fauna: Tiger, leopard, mouse deer, sambar, barking deer, sloth bear, macaques.
  • Avifauna: Hill myna (state bird), owlets, steppe eagles.
  • Reptiles: Freshwater crocodiles.

5. Udanti-Sitanadi TR

• • Constituents: Udanti WLS + Sitanadi WLS.
  • Rivers: Sitanadi & Udanti (tributaries of Mahanadi and Tel).
  • Vegetation: Tropical dry deciduous.
  • Flora: Sal.
  • Fauna: Tiger, wild water buffalo (EN), chausingha, chital, barking deer.

🦌 Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS)

1. Badalkhol WLS

• • Location: Ramgarh Hills.
  • Corridor: Between Achanakmar TR (Chhattisgarh) and Palamau TR (Jharkhand).

2. Barnawapara WLS

• • Boundaries:
    • • West & North: Mahanadi River
      • East: Jonk River (tributary of Mahanadi)

3. Bhairamgarh WLS

• • Location: Adjacent to Indravati NP; separated by Indravati River.
  • Purpose: Conservation of wild Asian buffalo (EN).

4. Bhoramdev WLS

• • Location: Maikal Hills (eastern Satpura).
  • Corridor: Between Kanha TR (MP) and Achanakmar TR (CG).

5. Pamed Wild Buffalo WLS

• • Location: Dantewada district.
  • Focus: Conservation of wild water buffalo (EN).

6. Sarangarh-Gomardha WLS

• • Location: East of Barnawapara WLS.

Goa

🌿 Mollem National Park & Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Western Ghats, Goa.
  • Divided by: National Highway 4A.
  • Notable Waterfalls:
    • • Dudhsagar Falls (on the Mandovi River): Tallest in Goa, 5th tallest in India.
      • Tambdi Falls.
  • Inhabitants: Dhangar – nomadic buffalo herders.
  • Vegetation: Tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests.
  • Major Fauna: Bengal tiger, leopard, gaur, bonnet macaque, Malabar giant squirrel, porcupine, slender loris.
  • Avifauna:
    • • Greater Indian hornbill.
      • Ruby-throated yellow bulbul – State bird of Goa.
  • Threats: Mining and transportation of iron and manganese ores.

🦜 Wildlife Sanctuaries of Goa

1. Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (Chorão Island)

• • Habitat: Estuarine mangrove.
  • Location: Chorão Island, along the Mandovi River.
  • Notable For: Wading birds and migratory species.

2. Madei Wildlife Sanctuary (IBA – Important Bird Area)

• • River: Madei River (called Mandovi River in Goa).
  • Potential Status: Proposed as a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger.
  • Incident (2020): Tiger and cubs poisoned due to human-animal conflict.
  • Ecological Significance: Part of the Western Ghats Biodiversity Hotspot.

⚖️ Mahadayi (Madei/Mandovi) Water Dispute

• • River Origin: Bhimgad, Karnataka.
  • Course: Flows as Madei River → Becomes Mandovi River in Goa → Meets sea at Panaji.
  • Conflict:
    • • Karnataka wants to divert water to Malaprabha basin via the Kalasa-Banduri Nala Project.
      • Goa opposes the diversion due to ecological concerns and threat to its water security.
  • Current Status: Matter is pending in the Supreme Court.

Gujarat

🦌 1. Blackbuck (Velavadar) National Park

• • Location: Bhal region, Saurashtra; borders the Gulf of Khambhat to the south.
  • Vegetation: Savanna grassland.
  • Major Fauna:
    • Blackbuck (LC) – flagship species.
    • Indian hyena, jungle cat.
  • Major Avifauna: Lesser florican (EN) – a critically threatened bustard.

🦁 2. Gir National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary (Sasan Gir)

• • Location: Near Talala Gir, Gujarat.
  • Significance: Only habitat of the Asiatic lion in Asia.
  • River: Kamleshwar Dam on Hiran River – “Lifeline of Gir”.
  • Vegetation: Dry deciduous forests.
  • Major Flora: Teak, acacia, babul, tendu, dhak.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Asiatic lion (EN) – apex predator.
      • Mugger crocodile (VU), leopard, chital, sambar, chausingha, chinkara, blackbuck.

🌊 3. Marine National Park (Gulf of Kachchh)

• • Location: Coastal Dwarka area, Gulf of Kutch.
  • Major Marine Fauna:
    • • Corals, dugongs (VU) (sea cows),
      • Sea turtles: Green turtle (EN), Olive ridley (VU), Leatherback (VU),
      • Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins.
  • Threats:
    • • Coral and sand extraction (cement industry),
      • Oil refineries, chemical industries,
      • Increased turbidity from mechanized fishing.

🌳 4. Vansda (Bansda) National Park

• • Location: On the banks of Ambika River, Western Ghats region of South Gujarat.
  • Vegetation: Deciduous forests.
  • Major Flora: Teak, bamboo, sisam trees.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Indian leopard, rhesus macaque, small Indian civet,
      • Chausingha, Indian (Malabar) giant squirrel.

Wildlife Sanctuaries of Gujarat

🏞️ Aravalli and Border Region

Balaram Ambaji WLS

• • Location: South of Mt. Abu (Aravallis), Gujarat-Rajasthan border.
  • Major Fauna: Sloth bear, striped hyena, leopard, nilgai, Indian porcupine, small Indian civet, Indian pangolin.

Jessore Sloth Bear WLS

• • Purpose: Conservation of sloth bear (VU).
  • Note: Banas River separates it from Balaram Ambaji WLS.

🦁 Lion Habitat Extensions

Girnar WLS

• • Location: Girnar Hills.
  • Highlight: Supports Asiatic lion (EN) population.

Mitiyala WLS

• • Note: Acts as an offshoot of Gir Lion Sanctuary.
  • Habitat: Grassland + semi-dry deciduous trees.

🐻 Sloth Bear Conservation

Ratanmahal Sloth Bear WLS

• • Location: Dahod district.
  • Species: Focus on sloth bear (VU).

🦅 Great Indian Bustard Conservation

Gaga (Great Indian Bustard) WLS

• • Location: Saurashtra coast, Gulf of Kutch.
  • Species: Great Indian Bustard (CR).

Kutch (Lala-Parjan) Bustard WLS

• • Location: Kutch.
  • Species: Also protects Great Indian Bustard (CR).
  • Local Name: Ghorad.

🦌 Desert and Grassland Ecosystems

Kutch Desert WLS

• • Type: Seasonal saline wetland in the Great Rann of Kutch.
  • Fossils: Dinosaurs, whales, crocodiles.
  • Avifauna: Greater flamingos.

Narayan Sarovar Chinkara WLS

• • Location: Near Kori Creek, Kutch.
  • Flagship: Chinkara (LC).
  • Note: Proposed site for Asiatic Cheetah (CR) reintroduction.

Wild Ass WLS

• • Location: Little Rann of Kutch.
  • Species: Last refuge of Indian wild ass (NT).
  • Threat: Illegal salt panning.

🐦 Bird Sanctuaries / Wetlands

Nal Sarovar Bird WLS (Ramsar Site)

• • Type: Natural freshwater lake; largest wetland BS in Gujarat.
  • Fauna: Indian wild ass (NT), blackbuck (LC), flamingos, storks, herons, waterfowls.

Thol Lake WLS

• • Type: Man-made reservoir, Mehsana.
  • Fauna: Flamingos, sarus crane, great white pelican, white-rumped vulture, Indian vulture.

Khijadiya Bird WLS

• • Location: Jamnagar district.

Porbandar Bird WLS

• • Location: Urban wetland in Porbandar city.

🏞️ Forested Sanctuaries (Western Ghats & Satpura)

Purna WLS

• • Location: Western Ghats, on Gujarat-Maharashtra border.
  • River: Purna River; adjacent to Vansda NP.

Shoolpaneswar (Dhumkhal) WLS

• • Location: Satpura Range, south of Narmada; borders MP and Maharashtra.
  • River: Tapti River separates it from Purna WLS.

🦁 Other Notables

• • Barda WLS: Near Porbandar; former range of Asiatic lion.
  • Madei WLS (in Goa) and Sukhna Lake WLS (in Chandigarh) – noted in earlier states, not Gujarat.

Haryana

National Parks

Kalesar NP

• • Location: Siwalik foothills, contiguous with Rajaji NP (Uttarakhand) and Simbalbara NP (Himachal Pradesh). Bound by Yamuna River to the east.
  • Vegetation: Tropical moist deciduous forest.
  • Major Fauna: Panthers, rusty-spotted cat, chital, goral, nilgai, porcupine, small Indian civet, rhesus macaque.

Sultanpur NP (Ramsar Site)

• • Location: 15 km from Gurugram.
  • Specialty: Famous for migratory birds.
  • Major Migratory Avifauna: Siberian crane, greater flamingo, spot-billed pelican, wood sandpiper, grey heron.

🌳 Wildlife Sanctuaries

Morni Hills (Khol-Hi-Raitan) WLS

• • Location: Shivalik hills.

Bir Shikargarh WLS

• • Location: Shivalik hills.

Chhilchhila Lake WLS (Seonthi Reserve Forest)

• • Location: Near Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra district.

Khaparwas WLS (BS)

• • Location: Jhajjar district.

Himachal Pradesh

🏞️ National Parks

Great Himalayan NP

• • Location: Kullu Valley, formed by Beas River.
  • Significance: UNESCO World Heritage Site, junction of Indomalayan and Palearctic biogeographic realms.
  • Vegetation: Ranges from temperate to subalpine.
  • Major Fauna: Bharal (blue sheep), snow leopard (VU), Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan tahr.

Inderkilla NP

• • Location: Kullu Valley (Beas River).
  • Major Fauna: Black bear, common leopard, Himalayan Ibex (Siberian Ibex).

Khirganga NP

• • Location: Kullu Valley, flanked by Great Himalayan NP and Pin Valley NP.
  • Vegetation: Dry alpine and scrub.
  • Major Fauna: Snow leopard, Himalayan Ibex, bharal (blue sheep), Himalayan Brown Fox.

Pin Valley NP

• • Location: Cold Desert BR, Himalayas. Pin River (tributary of Spiti River).
  • Vegetation: Alpine trees.
  • Major Fauna: Snow leopard, Himalayan (Siberian) Ibex.

Simbalbara (Col. Sher Jung) NP

• • Location: Paonta Valley.
  • Vegetation: Dense sal forests with grassy glades.
  • Major Fauna: Leopard, sambhar, goral, chital, barking deer, spotted deer, nilgai (blue bull).

🌳 Wildlife Sanctuaries

Chandratal WLS (Ramsar Site)

• • Location: Spiti Valley, near Kunzum Pass.
  • Specialty: Lake in a high-altitude desert region.

Dhauladhar WLS

• • Location: Lesser Himalayas, between Dalhousie and Kullu-Manali valleys.
  • Major Flora: Oak, rhododendron, deodar.

Kais WLS

• • Location: Parts of Kais Nala (tributary of Beas River).
  • Specialty: Protection of Musk Deer (EN), which has declined due to poaching.

Kalatop-Khajjiar WLS

• • Location: Near Dalhousie, Ravi River.
  • Vegetation: Dense deodar and fir forest.

Kugti WLS

• • Location: Between Ravi and Chenab Rivers.
  • Major Fauna: Himalayan tahr (NT).

Lippa Asrang WLS

• • Location: Kinnaur district.
  • Major Fauna: Snow leopard (VU).

Pong Dam Lake WLS (BS, Ramsar Site)

• • Location: Beas River (Maharana Pratap Sagar).
  • Importance: Key fishing reservoir, important for migratory birds.

Rakchham Chitkul (Sangla Valley) WLS

• • Location: Sangla Valley, Baspa River (tributary of Sutlej River).

Renuka WLS (Ramsar Site)

• • Location: Near Simbalbara NP.
  • Specialty: A small tributary of Yamuna separates it from Simbalbara NP.

Rupi Bhaba WLS

• • Location: Between Pin Valley NP and Govind NP (Uttarakhand).

🌲 Other Notable Wildlife Sanctuaries

• • Churdhar WLS: Shimla district, named after Churdhar Peak.
  • Kibber WLS: Spiti Valley (high-altitude sanctuary).
  • Manali WLS: Along Manali River (tributary of Beas River).
  • Sech Tuan Nala WLS: Chamba district.
  • Shikari Devi WLS: Mandi district, near Sutlej River.

Jammu & Kashmir

🏞️ National Parks

City Forest (Salim Ali) NP

• • Location: Srinagar.
  • Named After: Indian ornithologist Salim Ali, renowned for bird surveys and contributions to the Bombay Natural History Society.
  • Major Fauna: Kashmiri stag (hangul; CR), musk deer (EN), Himalayan black bear.
  • Avifauna: Paradise flycatcher, Himalayan monal, Himalayan snowcock.

Dachigam NP

• • Location: Zabarwan Range, Western Himalayas.
  • Vegetation: Coniferous forests, alpine pastures, meadows, scrub.
  • Major Fauna: Kashmiri stag (hangul; CR), musk deer (EN), Himalayan serow, Kashmir grey langur, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan brown bear.

Kishtwar NP

• • Location: Bounded by Rinnay River (north), Kibar Nala catchment (south), Great Himalayas (east), Marwah River (west).
  • Vegetation: Conifer forests, alpine scrub, meadows.
  • Major Fauna: Snow leopards, Himalayan snowcock.

🌳 Wildlife Sanctuaries

Gulmarg WLS

• • Location: Foothills of Pir Panjal Range.
  • Major Fauna: Musk deer, common leopard, barking deer.

Hirapora WLS

• • Location: Shopian district, Kashmir.
  • Bounded By: Pir Panjal Pass to the west.

Hokersar or Hokera WLS (Ramsar Site)

• • Location: Jhelum basin.
  • Significance: Important migratory bird area, natural perennial wetland.

Nandni WLS (BS)

• • Location: Near Jammu.
  • Specialty: Known for its pheasant population.

Overa-Aru WLS

• • Location: East of Dachigam NP.
  • Major Fauna: Hangul (Kashmir Stag; CR), musk deer (EN), snow leopard (VU).

Rajparian (Daksum) WLS

• • Location: Anantnag district, Kashmir.
  • Major Fauna: Hangul (Kashmir Stag; CR), musk deer (EN).
  • Threat: Overgrazing by Bakarwals (nomadic herders).

Ramnagar Rakha WLS

• • Location: Near Jammu.
  • Major Fauna: Musk deer, brown bears, leopards.

Surinsar Mansar WLS (Ramsar Site)

• • Location: 58 km from Jammu city.
  • Significance: Named after two lakes in the sanctuary.

Tral WLS

• • Location: Pulwama.
  • Significance: Buffer zone for Dachigam NP and Overa-Aru WLS, focusing on the hangul (Kashmir stag; CR).

Trikuta WLS

• • Location: North of Jammu.
  • Significance: Home to the revered Vaishno Devi shrine.

🌲 Other Notable Wildlife Sanctuaries

• • Jasrota WLS: Located in Sivalik Hills, west of Ranjit Sagar Dam (Punjab).

Ladakh

🏞️ National Parks

Hemis NP

• • Location: North of the Greater Himalayas, bounded by the Indus River (north) and the Zanskar Range (south).
  • Size: Second-largest contiguous protected area in India after Nanda Devi BR.
  • Significance: Famous for snow leopards and the Shapu (Ladakhi Urial), the only refuge in India for this species.
  • Vegetation: Pine forests, alpine shrublands, meadows, alpine tundra.
  • Major Fauna: Argali (Tibetan Sheep), bharal (blue sheep), Tibetan wolf.
  • Major Avifauna: Golden eagle, Himalayan griffon vulture, Himalayan snowcock.
  • Threats: Man-animal conflict due to overgrazing.

🌳 Wildlife Sanctuaries

Changthang WLS (Ramsar Site)

• • Location: Changthang Plateau.
  • Significance: Home to one of the highest lakes on Earth, Tso Moriri (4595 m).
  • Major Fauna: Snow leopard, kiang (Tibetan Wild Ass; LC), argali (Great Tibetan Sheep; NT).
  • Special Feature: Korzok Monastery located on the north-western bank of Tso Moriri.

Karakoram (Nubra Shyok) WLS

• • Location: Easternmost reaches of the Karakoram Range.
  • Significance: Known for migratory populations of chiru/Tibetan antelope (NT).

Jharkhand

Betla National Park (NP)

• • Location: Chota Nagpur Plateau, with the North Koel River (a tributary of the Son River) flowing through the park.
  • Composition: Betla NP = Palamu TR + Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary.
  • Vegetation: Bamboo and sal forests.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Elephants
      • Bengal tiger
      • Sloth bear
      • Gaur
      • Chital
      • Sambhar
      • Nilgai
      • Mouse deer
      • Rhesus monkeys
      • Indian giant squirrels
      • Chausingha
  • Major Avifauna: Hornbill, black ibis, quail.

Palamu Tiger Reserve (TR)

• • Location: Part of Betla NP and Palamu WLS.
  • Significance: One of the nine original tiger reserves in India.
  • Vegetation: Bamboo and sal forests.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Tigers
      • Elephants
      • Leopards
      • Gaurs
      • Sambars

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of Jharkhand

Dalma WLS:

• • Location: Dalma Hills.
  • Significance: An important elephant corridor.

Gautam Budha WLS:

• • Location: Spanning Bihar and Jharkhand.
  • Vegetation: Moist deciduous forests in Lower Gangetic Plains and dry deciduous forests in Chota Nagpur.

Mahuadanr Wolf WLS:

• • Location: Along the Jharkhand-Chhattisgarh border.
  • Significance: A breeding ground for Indian wolf.

Palkot WLS:

• • Location: Contiguous with Koel River Valley forests, Saranda-Singhbhum Range forests, and Dalma WLS.

Parasnath WLS:

• • Location: Parasnath Hills (Chota Nagpur Plateau).

Udhwa Lake Bird WLS:

• • Location: Comprises two backwater lakes over the Ganga River.
  • Significance: The only bird sanctuary (BS) in Jharkhand.

Other Wildlife Sanctuaries

• • Hazaribagh WLS: Located to the north of Ranchi.
  • Kodarma WLS: Adjacent to Gautam Budha WLS.
  • Lawalong WLS: Contiguous with Gautam Budha WLS and Kodarma WLS along the Bihar-Jharkhand border.
  • Topchanchi WLS: Adjacent to Parasnath WLS.

Karnataka

National Parks & Tiger Reserves

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of Karnataka

Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary

      Located in the biodiverse-rich Western Ghats, Bhimgad WLS is the only known breeding habitat of the Wroughton’s free-tailed bat (Critically Endangered). This sanctuary forms a contiguous ecological corridor with Madei WLS, Bhagwan Mahaveer WLS, and Mollem National Park in Goa, and Dandeli WLS in Karnataka, thereby supporting habitat connectivity for various species.

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

       Nestled in the Western Ghats, this sanctuary shares its boundary with Aralam WLS of Kerala. It harbors several endemic and endangered species such as the lion-tailed macaque (Endangered), Malabar giant squirrel, giant flying squirrel, and the elusive Nilgiri marten. Its location enhances its ecological significance as a transboundary sanctuary aiding wildlife migration and gene flow.

Bukkapatna Wildlife Sanctuary

      Situated in Tumakuru district, Bukkapatna WLS is dedicated to the protection of the chinkara (Indian gazelle), contributing to the conservation of dryland biodiversity in Karnataka.

Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

        This large sanctuary lies along the Cauvery River and shares borders with BR Hills TR, Sathyamangalam TR, and Dharmapuri Forest in Tamil Nadu. It encompasses ecologically vital areas like Hogenakal Falls and Mekedatu, a scenic confluence of the Cauvery and Arkavathi rivers. The sanctuary supports species such as tiger, elephant, Malabar and grizzled giant squirrels, and the mugger crocodile.

Daroji Sloth Bear Wildlife Sanctuary

       Located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, Daroji WLS was established exclusively for the conservation of the sloth bear (Vulnerable), and it serves as a vital habitat for this unique species in Karnataka’s arid scrub forest ecosystem.

Ghataprabha Bird Wildlife Sanctuary

        This sanctuary comprises a 28-km stretch along the Ghataprabha River, a tributary of the Krishna River. It offers an important freshwater habitat for several resident and migratory bird species.

Gudavi Bird Wildlife Sanctuary

       Located in Shimoga district, this sanctuary is centered around a seasonal lake that hosts numerous water birds during the monsoon and winter seasons.

Gudekote Sloth Bear Wildlife Sanctuary

     Situated south of Daroji, this sanctuary is another critical habitat for the sloth bear and plays a complementary role in sloth bear conservation in the Deccan Plateau region.

Kamasandra Wildlife Sanctuary

    Recently notified, this sanctuary lies at the trijunction of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, making it significant for regional biodiversity conservation and wildlife movement across state borders.

Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

     Located in the Eastern Ghats, this sanctuary is flanked by Cauvery WLS, Sathyamangalam TR, and BR Hills TR, forming a contiguous landscape crucial for elephants and other wide-ranging species.

Melkote Temple Wildlife Sanctuary

      Situated in Mandya district, this sanctuary was established to protect the grey wolf, and it also serves as a conservation area for scrubland species in southern Karnataka.

Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary

    Named after the revered Kollur Mookambika Temple, this sanctuary in the Western Ghats includes the iconic Kodachadri Hills, making it rich in both biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

    Home to Pushpagiri peak (Kumara Parvatha, 1712 m), this sanctuary features notable waterfalls such as Mallalli Falls and Kote Abbe Falls. It is a part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.

Ranebennur Blackbuck Wildlife Sanctuary

    Established to protect the blackbuck (Least Concern), this sanctuary in the dry plains of Karnataka also reports occasional sightings of the great Indian bustard, adding to its conservation importance.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (RBS)

      Popularly known as the “Pakshi Kashi of Karnataka”, this sanctuary lies near Srirangapatna and consists of six islets on the Cauvery River. It is the largest bird sanctuary in Karnataka and hosts numerous migratory species from Siberia, Latin America, and northern India. Key species include painted stork, Asian openbill stork, and mugger crocodile. The sanctuary faces seasonal flooding due to water releases from the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam.

Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary

      India’s first dedicated vulture sanctuary, this reserve supports critically endangered long-billed and white-rumped vultures, along with the endangered Egyptian vulture. It is vital for vulture conservation in the southern peninsula.

Rangayyanadurga Wildlife Sanctuary

       Located in Davanagere district, it is the only sanctuary in Karnataka dedicated to the four-horned antelope (chausingha, VU), emphasizing its uniqueness in India’s conservation landscape.

Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

      This sanctuary lies along the Sharavathi River, entirely within the Western Ghats. It houses the majestic Jog Falls and the expansive Linganamakki Reservoir, making it ecologically and hydrologically important.

Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary

     Adjacent to Bhadra WLS and TR, this sanctuary includes the Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary and supports a variety of avian and terrestrial fauna.

Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary

     Situated in the rain-drenched region of the Western Ghats, Agumbe, known as the Cherrapunji of the South, lies within this sanctuary. It is one of the best places to study king cobras and tropical rainforest ecosystems.

Yadahalli Chinkara Wildlife Sanctuary

     Located in Bagalkot district, this sanctuary is Karnataka’s first and only protected area for the chinkara (LC). It safeguards the last remaining population of this species in the state.

Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary

    This ecologically sacred site is located in the Brahmagiri Hills and marks the origin of the Kaveri River. It holds spiritual, ecological, and hydrological importance.

Thimlapura Wildlife Sanctuary

    This sanctuary in Tumkur district functions as a conservation reserve for sloth bears, contributing to the species’ protection outside national parks.

Other Noteworthy Sanctuaries

• • Adichunchanagiri WLS: Also known as the Peacock Sanctuary, located in Mandya district.
  • Arabithittu WLS: Situated in Mysore district.
  • Attiveri Bird Sanctuary: Located in Uttara Kannada district.
  • Chincholi WLS: A dryland sanctuary in Kalaburagi district.
  • Jogimatti WLS: A hill station and protected area in Chitradurga.
  • Kappathagudda WLS: Located in Gadag district, facing threats from illegal mining.
  • Nugu WLS: Lies north of Bandipur NP in Mysore district, playing a role in buffer protection.

Kerala

      Kerala, situated along the Western Ghats, is a biodiversity hotspot teeming with endemic flora and fauna. The state boasts numerous protected areas, including national parks (NP), wildlife sanctuaries (WLS), and biosphere reserves (BR), playing a vital role in conservation.

Anamudi Shola National Park

• • Location: Western Ghats, Idukki district, Kerala.
  • Significance: Contains Anamudi (2695 m), the highest peak in peninsular India, also shared with Eravikulam NP.
  • Surrounding Protected Areas: Mathikettan Shola NP, Eravikulam NP, Pambadum Shola NP, Chinnar WLS, Kurinjimala WLS — all part of the Munnar Wildlife Division.
  • Vegetation: Tropical evergreen, wet montane, moist deciduous, and unique shola forests.
  • Key Fauna: Lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri tahr (Endangered), Nilgiri marten (Vulnerable), gaur, Indian muntjac, grizzled giant squirrel (Near Threatened), flying squirrels, Nilgiri langur (Vulnerable).
  • Threats: Unregulated tourism development, invasive plant species, deforestation due to rubber and tea plantations.

Understanding Sholas

• • Definition: Sholas are high-altitude stunted tropical montane forests interspersed with rolling grasslands, exclusive to the Western Ghats.
  • Ecological Role: They are rich in endemic species and act as vital water sources, occurring in mountain folds with minimal fog.

Eravikulam National Park

• • Location: Western Ghats, Kerala.
  • Vegetation: High-altitude montane grasslands and sholas.
  • Key Fauna: Similar to Anamudi Shola NP.
  • Avifauna: Home to endemic species such as the Black-and-orange flycatcher.

Mathikettan Shola National Park

• • Location: Western Ghats, Idukki district.
  • Flora and Fauna: Comparable to Anamudi Shola NP; noted for its dense biodiversity and endemic species.

Pambadum Shola National Park

• • Location: Situated on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, part of the Palani Hills.
  • Biodiversity: Shares similar ecological characteristics with Anamudi Shola NP.

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

• • Location: Sungam range between the Anaimalai (TN) and Nelliampathy Hills (Kerala).
  • Vegetation: A mosaic of evergreen, moist deciduous, and shola forests.
  • Key Fauna: Includes lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri tahr, Nilgiri langur, Nilgiri marten, and the rare Travancore flying squirrel.

Periyar National Park, Tiger Reserve, and Elephant Reserve

• • Location: Cardamom Hills, Western Ghats.
  • Hydrological Importance: Major watershed for the Periyar and Pamba rivers; surrounds Periyar Lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam.
  • Vegetation: Evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, montane grasslands, savannas, and aquatic ecosystems.
  • Flora and Fauna: Includes teak, rosewood, and sandalwood trees; lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri marten, and Salim Ali’s fruit bat.
  • Avifauna: Endemics such as Malabar grey hornbill, Nilgiri wood pigeon, and Nilgiri flycatcher.

Silent Valley National Park

• • Location: Nilgiri Hills, spanning Kerala and Tamil Nadu; part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
  • Rivers: Kunthipuzha, Bhavani, and Kadalundi rivers originate here.
  • Vegetation: Dense tropical moist evergreen rainforests and sholas.
  • Key Fauna: Largest population of lion-tailed macaques, Malabar giant squirrel, Travancore flying squirrel.
  • Avifauna: Nilgiri flycatcher, Malabar grey hornbill.
  • Threats: Livestock grazing, forest fires, and illegal cannabis cultivation.

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of Kerala

Aralam WLS

• • Located in the northern Western Ghats; contiguous with Brahmagiri WLS (Karnataka).
  • Lies eastward of Nagarhole NP and TR.

Chimmony WLS

• • Situated along the Western Ghats; adjacent to Peechi-Vazhani WLS and Parambikulam WLS.
  • Contains the Chimmony Dam on the Chimmony River.

Chinnar WLS

• • Idukki district; contiguous with Eravikulam NP, Indira Gandhi WLS, and Palani Hills.
  • Under UNESCO World Heritage Site consideration.
  • Rivers: Chinnar and Pambar (Chinnar becomes Amaravati River in TN).
  • Unique Species: Albino gaur (Manjampatti white bison).

Idukki WLS

• • Bounded by Cheruthoni and Periyar rivers; nestled between Mathikettan NP and Periyar TR.
  • Located within the Cardamom Hills.

Kottiyoor WLS

• • Located in Kannur district; close to Aralam WLS and Nagarhole NP.

Kurinjimala WLS

• • Core habitat of the endangered Neelakurinji (blooms once every 12 years).
  • Contiguous with several protected areas including Chinnar, Eravikulam, Anamudi, and Pambadum Shola NPs.

Other Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala

Madhya Pradesh

Bandhavgarh National Park & Tiger Reserve

• • Location: Vindhya Range, former hunting preserve of Maharaja of Rewa. First white tiger captured here (1951).
  • Vegetation: Moist and mixed deciduous forests.
  • Notable Fauna: Bengal tiger (high density), elephant, leopard, Indian wolf, striped hyena, nilgai.
  • Avifauna: Indian grey hornbill, lesser adjutant stork, Bonelli’s eagle.
  • Note: Indian bison reintroduced from Kanha.

🦕 Dinosaur (Ashmadha) Fossil National Park

• • Location: Narmada Valley.
  • Highlights: Fossils of dinosaurs, eggs, and trees dating back ~60 million years.

🐯 Durgavati Tiger Reserve (Proposed – In-Principle Approval Received)

• • Significance: 7th proposed TR of MP; green corridor to connect with Panna TR.
  • Context: Developed due to Ken-Betwa link submerging Panna TR areas.
  • Status: Approved in principle by NTCA.

🐾 Indira Priyadarshini Pench National Park & Tiger Reserve

• • Location: Satpura Range; Pench River divides park.
  • Shared With: Maharashtra (Jawahar Nehru Pench NP).
  • Vegetation: Moist and dry deciduous forests.
  • Flora: Teak.
  • Fauna: Royal Bengal tiger, leopard, four-horned antelope.
  • Threats: NH-44 expansion causing habitat fragmentation.
  • Note: Inspired The Jungle Book; “Collarwali” tigress notable here.

🌳 Kanha National Park & Tiger Reserve

• • Location: Maikal Range (Satpuras); largest NP in Central India.
  • Divisions: Hallon and Banjar zones.
  • Tribal Displacement: Baiga tribe lost forest rights.
  • Vegetation: Moist and dry deciduous forests.
  • Flora: Sal, bamboo.
  • Fauna: Tiger, barasingha (VU), gaur, dhole, chausingha.
  • Avifauna: Indian grey hornbill, lesser adjutant, black ibis.

🦌 Madhav National Park

• • Named After: Madho Rao Scindia (Scindia dynasty).
  • Reservoirs: Sakhya Sagar & Madhav Sagar; Sakhya Sagar = Ramsar Site (2022).
  • Vegetation: Dry deciduous forests and grasslands.
  • Fauna: Chinkara, chausingha, nilgai, chital.

🌿 Mandla Plant Fossil National Park

• • Location: Narmada Valley.
  • Highlights: Fossils of plants dating back 40–150 million years.
  • Nearby: Ghughua Fossil Park.

🐊 Panna National Park & Tiger Reserve

• • River: Ken River (Yamuna tributary); also houses Ken Gharial WLS.
  • Vegetation: Fragmented deciduous forests.
  • Fauna: Tigers (reintroduced), leopard, chinkara.
  • Note: No tigers left in 2012 – reintroduction from Bandhavgarh & Kanha.

Ratapani Tiger Reserve (Proposed)

• • Location: Vindhya Range, Central India
  • Status: NTCA approval received; final approval pending from MP Government
  • Threats: Tiger deaths due to road/rail accidents and poaching

Satpura National Park & Tiger Reserve

• • Notable Facts: First reserve forest of India
  • Location: Satpura Range
  • Key Features: Dhoopgarh Peak (1,350 m), Churna plains, rugged sandstone terrain, dense forests
  • Nearest City: Pachmarhi
  • Flora: Sal, teak, tendu, mahua
  • Fauna:
    • • Carnivores: Bengal tiger, leopard
      • Herbivores: Sambar, chital, Indian muntjac, nilgai, chausingha, chinkara, blackbuck (LC)

Sanjay National Park / Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve

• • Note: Covered under Chhattisgarh section due to shared geography

Van Vihar National Park

• • Location: Bhopal city
  • Status: National Park managed as a zoological park
  • Captive Fauna: Bengal tiger, Asiatic lion, mugger crocodile, gharial, spotted deer (chital), sambar, blackbuck

Wildlife Sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh

Bagdara WLS

• • Location: Near Ban Sagar Dam (on Sone River)
  • Note: Dam is a multipurpose river valley project

Bori WLS

• • Location: Foothills of Satpura Range, along Tawa River (tributary of Narmada)
  • Part of: Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve (with Satpura NP & Pachmarhi WLS)

 Gandhi Sagar WLS

• • Location: Between Gandhi Sagar Dam (MP) and Rana Pratap Sagar Dam (Rajasthan), on Chambal River
  • Fauna: Mugger crocodiles (VU)
  • Feature: Chambal River divides the sanctuary into two parts

 Ghatigaon WLS

• • Location: Near Gwalior
  • Key Species: Great Indian bustard (CR)

Karera WLS

• • Purpose: Established to protect the Great Indian bustard (CR)
  • Fauna: Great Indian bustard (CR), blackbuck (LC)

 Ken Gharial WLS

• • Location: Near Panna National Park and Khajuraho Monuments
  • River: Ken River (tributary of Yamuna)
  • Conservation: Breeding of fish-eating gharials (CR), later released in wild

 kheoni WLS

• • Ecological Importance: Connected via corridors to Ratapani WLS
  • Notable Fauna: Presence of tigers migrated from Ratapan

Narsinghgarh WLS

• • Location: Vindhya Range
  • River: Parbati River flows along the periphery
  • Note: Parbati is a major tributary of Chambal River, along with Banas and Kali Sindh

National Chambal Gharial WLS

• • Location: Chambal River near MP-Rajasthan-UP tripoint
  • Status: Tri-state protected area; Important Bird Area (IBA)
  • Key Species:
    • • Critically Endangered (CR): Gharial, red-crowned roof turtle, three-striped roof turtle
      • Endangered (EN): Ganges river dolphin (flagship species), Indian narrow-headed softshell turtle
      • Vulnerable (VU): Mugger crocodile, smooth-coated otter, Indian softshell turtle
      • Least Concern (LC): Indian roofed turtle

Noradehi WLS

• • Status: Largest Wildlife Sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh
  • Basin: ~75% in Yamuna Basin, ~25% in Narmada Basin
  • Location: Southern Vindhya Range; near Bandhavgarh NP and Panna NP

Orcha WLS

• • Location: Island formed by Betwa River (Yamuna tributary)

Pachmarhi WLS

• • Location: Satpura Range
  • Part of: Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve (with Satpura NP and Bori WLS)

Kuno WLS

• • Districts: Sheopur and Morena
  • Conservation Projects:
    • Cheetah Reintroduction: African cheetahs brought from Namibia
    • Potential site: Asiatic lion reintroduction

Panna (Gangau) WLS

• • Tiger Reserve Composition: Panna TR = Panna NP + Gangau WLS + Ken Gharial WLS

Panpatha WLS

• • Tiger Reserve Composition: Bandhavgarh TR = Bandhavgarh NP + Panpatha WLS

Phen WLS

• • Location: Southeastern buffer of Kanha National Park
  • Position: Close to Madhya Pradesh–Chhattisgarh border

Sailana or Kharmor WLS (Bird Sanctuary)

• • Key Species: ‘Kharmour’ (Lesser Florican – EN)
  • Note: Established on recommendation of Dr. Salim Ali

Sardarpur WLS

• • District: Dhar
  • Purpose: Protection of Lesser Florican (EN); recommended by Salim Ali

Singhori WLS

• • Contiguity: Adjacent to Ratapani WLS in Vindhya Range
  • Separated from Satpura TR by the Narmada River Basin

 Son Gharial WLS

• • Purpose: Conservation of gharial and marsh crocodile in natural habitat

Ralamandal WLS

• • Location: Southern periphery of Indore city

Veerangna Durgavati WLS

• • Location: Vindhya Range, Damoh district

Maharashtra

Bor Tiger Reserve (TR) and Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated in Wardha District of Maharashtra, Bor Tiger Reserve includes the catchment area of the Bor Dam and lies strategically in the Satpura-Maikal landscape, acting as a vital corridor for wildlife movement between Pench and Melghat Tiger Reserves.
  • Vegetation: Dominated by dry deciduous forests, Bor showcases a rich floral diversity typical of central Indian forests.
  • Major Flora: Key plant species include Teak (Tectona grandis), Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon), and Bamboo (Bambusoideae).
  • Major Fauna: The reserve is home to charismatic and keystone species such as the Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), Indian leopard (Panthera pardus fusca), Indian bison or gaur (Bos gaurus), blue bull (Boselaphus tragocamelus), chital (Axis axis), barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak), and the elusive mouse deer (Moschiola indica).
  • Ecological Importance: Bor TR plays a crucial role in sustaining genetic diversity and maintaining viable populations of large carnivores and herbivores in the Central Indian landscape.
  • Major Threats: Primary threats include frequent forest fires, leading to habitat degradation, and escalating human-wildlife conflict due to the proximity of human settlements to the forested areas.

Melghat Tiger Reserve and Gugamal National Park

• • Location: Situated in the Amravati district of Maharashtra, Melghat Tiger Reserve forms part of the Satpura hill range. The Tapi River and the Gawilgarh Hills define its northern boundary, enhancing its ecological significance.
  • Composition: Gugamal National Park, established in 1975, is one of the seven protected areas within the Melghat Tiger Reserve. The reserve as a whole serves as an important catchment area for five major rivers — Khandu, Khapra, Sipna, Gadga, and Dolar — all tributaries of the Tapti River.
  • Vegetation: The landscape is predominantly dry deciduous forest, with dense patches that support a variety of fauna.
  • Major Fauna: Important species found include the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, sloth bear (Melursus ursinus), four-horned antelope or chausingha (Tetracerus quadricornis), Indian gaur, barking deer, nilgai, and rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta).
  • Special Features: Melghat is one of the first nine Tiger Reserves designated under Project Tiger (1973–74), reflecting its long-standing role in tiger conservation in India.

Nawegaon National Park

• • Location: Nawegaon National Park, located in Gondia district, is a significant biodiversity hotspot, particularly known for its avifaunal richness.
  • Key Feature: It houses the renowned Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, which harbors nearly 60% of the bird species recorded in Maharashtra. Each winter, the Nawegaon Lake becomes a haven for migratory birds from different parts of the world.
  • Vegetation: The park displays a combination of moist and dry deciduous forests, creating a rich mosaic of habitats.
  • Major Fauna: Important mammals include the Royal Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, Indian gaur, sloth bear, common giant flying squirrel (Petaurista petaurista), and the small Indian civet (Viverricula indica).
  • Conservation Landscape: Nawegaon National Park, together with Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary and Koka Wildlife Sanctuary, forms the Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve — an important conservation unit for central Indian wildlife.

Jawaharlal Nehru Pench National Park and Pench Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra Portion)

• • Location: The Pench Tiger Reserve spans the states of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. In Maharashtra, it is represented by the Jawaharlal Nehru Pench National Park.
  • Vegetation: The park is characterized by tropical dry deciduous forests, interspersed with grassy meadows, providing an ideal habitat for a wide array of fauna.
  • Major Flora: Dominant plant species include Teak (Tectona grandis), Segun (a local name for Teak), and Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon).
  • Major Fauna: The reserve supports a healthy population of the Royal Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, sloth bear, gaur, and the four-horned antelope (Tetracerus quadricornis).
  • Special Attributes: The Pench landscape is famously associated with Rudyard Kipling’s classic, The Jungle Book, and continues to inspire conservation efforts for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty.

Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (TR), Chandoli National Park (NP) and Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated within the northern section of the Western Ghats (Sahyadri Range) in Maharashtra.
  • Composition:
    • • Sahyadri Tiger Reserve = Chandoli National Park + Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Key Features:
    • • Koyna WLS is known for two major water bodies: Shivsagar Lake and the Koyna Reservoir, created by the famous Koyna Dam across the Koyna River.
      • Forms part of the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to its rich biodiversity and ecological significance.
  • Vegetation: Predominantly moist deciduous forests, interspersed with patches of semi-evergreen vegetation.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Apex predators such as the Bengal tiger and Indian leopard.
      • Large herbivores like gaur, sambar, barking deer, blackbuck, and mouse deer.
      • Arboreal species like the Indian giant squirrel (Ratufa indica).

Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) (Borivali National Park)

• • Location: Nestled in the heart of Mumbai Metropolitan Region — a unique wilderness amid urbanization.
  • Key Features:
    • • Houses the Kanheri Caves, a group of 2400-year-old Buddhist rock-cut monuments carved out of basalt.
      • Kanheri served historically as an important center for Buddhist learning and meditation.
  • Vegetation: Tropical moist deciduous forest.
  • Major Flora:
    • • Kadamba (Neolamarckia cadamba), associated with Indian mythology.
      • Some patches of tea plantations.
• Major Fauna:
  • Chital, rhesus macaque, Indian muntjac (barking deer), Asian palm civet, Indian flying fox, mouse deer, and the elusive leopard, remarkably surviving close to a mega-city.

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR), Tadoba National Park and Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Chandrapur district, eastern Maharashtra (Vidarbha region).
  • Composition:
    • • Tadoba Andhari TR = Tadoba NP + Andhari WLS.
  • Key Features:
    • • Maharashtra’s oldest and largest national park.
      • Includes two important wetlands: Tadoba Lake and Erai Reservoir.
      • The Erai Reservoir is an important habitat for the mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris).
  • Vegetation: Dry deciduous forest with teak dominance.
  • Major Flora: Teak (Tectona grandis), Tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon).
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Bengal tiger, gaur, nilgai, dhole (Indian wild dog), small Indian civet.
  • Threats: Encroachment due to human habitations and recurrent forest fires.

Major Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of Maharashtra

Amba Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Lies to the west of Melghat WLS.
  • Ecological Importance: Forms part of the Melghat Tiger Reserve, along with Gugamal NP, Melghat WLS, and Narnala WLS.

Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Part of: Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR).
  • Supports crucial tiger habitat linked to the Tadoba region.

Aner Dam Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Positioned along the southwestern Satpura ranges, in the Jalgaon district.
  • Connectivity: Shares ecological continuity with Yawal Wildlife Sanctuary.

Bhamragarh Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Vidarbha region, Chandrapur district.
  • Key Features:
    • • Traversed by the Parlkota River, a tributary of the Indravati River.
      • Acts as a buffer and ecological link to the Indravati Tiger Reserve (Chhattisgarh).

Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Northern Western Ghats (Sahyadri hills).
  • Key Features:
    • • Created to protect the habitat of the Indian (Malabar) Giant Squirrel (Ratufa indica), Maharashtra’s state animal.
      • Encompasses the Bhimashankar Temple, one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlinga shrines.
      • Source of the Bhima River, a tributary of the Krishna River.

Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Eastern Maharashtra, Gadchiroli district.
  • Key Features:
    • • Western boundary marked by the Pranhita River, formed by the confluence of the Wardha and Wainganga Rivers.
      • Acts as a crucial corridor linking the Tadoba Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) with the Indravati Tiger Reserve (Chhattisgarh).

Deulgaon-Rehekuri Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Ahmednagar district.
  • Special Focus:
    • • Designated specifically for the conservation of the blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), locally known as ‘Kalvit’.

Dhyanganga Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Buldhana district.
  • Key Features:
    • • Located southwest of the Melghat Tiger Reserve.
      • Drained by the Dhyanganga River, a minor tributary of the Purna River, itself a tributary of the Tapti.

New Maldhok Bird Sanctuary (Gangewadi Grassland)

• • Location: Solapur and Osmanabad district boundary.
  • Special Status:
    • • Recently notified as part of the expanded Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary.
      • Aims to protect critical grassland habitat essential for the survival of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps).

Gautala-Autramghat Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Lies in the Satmala and Ajanta hill ranges of the Western Ghats; situated to the west of the Ajanta Caves.
  • Key Habitat: Dry deciduous forests.

Ghodazari Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Vidarbha region.
  • Special Role: Important tiger corridor linking Tadoba-Andhari TR and Umred-Karhandla WLS.

Great Indian Bustard Wildlife Sanctuary (Jawaharlal Nehru Bustard Sanctuary)

• • Location: Solapur district.
  • Special Focus: Conservation of the Great Indian Bustard (CR).
  • Habitat: Semi-arid, drought-prone grasslands.

Isapur Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Yavatmal district.
  • Key Feature: Traversed by the Painganga River (tributary of Wardha River, originating from the Ajanta ranges).

Jaikwadi Wildlife Sanctuary (Bird Sanctuary)

• • Location: Backwaters of Nath Sagar Reservoir (Jaikwadi Dam) over the Godavari River.
  • Importance: Provides wetland habitat for migratory birds.
  • Utility: Nath Sagar is crucial for irrigating the Marathwada region.

Kalsubai-Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Northern Western Ghats (Sahyadris).
  • Highlight: Includes Kalsubai Peak (1646 m) — the highest point in Maharashtra.

Karnala Fort Wildlife Sanctuary (Bird Sanctuary)

• • Location: Between Mumbai and Lonavala.
  • Highlight: Famous for Karnala Fort and rich bird diversity.

Karanja Sohal Blackbuck Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Focus: Created for conservation of blackbuck (LC).

Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Vidarbha region.
  • Key Fauna:
    • • Four-horned antelope (chausingha) (VU).
      • Barking deer (Indian muntjac, LC).

Kolamarka Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Gadchiroli district.
  • Update: Upgraded from Conservation Reserve to Wildlife Sanctuary in 2022.

Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Western Ghats.
  • Importance:
    • • Forms a part of Sahyadri Tiger Reserve.
      • Catchment area for Koyna Dam and Shivsagar Lake.
      • Designated as an Important Bird Area.

Lonar Wildlife Sanctuary (Ramsar Site)

• • Location: Buldhana district.
  • Key Features:
    • • Lonar Lake: A saline, alkaline meteorite-impact crater, 56,000 years old (Pleistocene Epoch).
      • India’s only meteorite crater lake of its kind.

Malvan Marine Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Arabian Sea coast, Sindhudurg district.
  • Key Feature:
    • • Sindhudurg Fort (built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj) lies within its core zone.

Mansingdeo Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Nagpur district.
  • Importance: Acts as a buffer zone for Pench Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra side).

Muktai Bhawani Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Update: Declared as Wildlife Sanctuary in 2022 (earlier a Conservation Reserve).

Nandur Madhameshwar Wildlife Sanctuary (Bird Sanctuary) (Ramsar Site)

• • Location: Nashik district, at the confluence of the Godavari and Kadwa Rivers.
  • Highlight:
    • • Recognized as Maharashtra’s first Ramsar Site.
      • Important migratory bird habitat.

Narnala Bird Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Gawilgarh Hills (Vidarbha region).
  • Special Features:
    • • Close to Melghat TR.
      • Hosts Narnala Fort and Gawilgarh Fort.

Painganga Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Hingoli and Yavatmal districts.
  • Key Feature:
    • • Flanked on three sides by the Painganga River (a tributary of the Wardha).

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Raigad district.
  • Importance: Protects the unique coastal woodland ecosystems of the Western Ghats.

Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Southern Sahyadri hills, Western Ghats.
  • Significance:
    • • First declared Wildlife Sanctuary of Maharashtra.
      • Flagship species: Indian bison or gaur (VU).

Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Sangli district (outside the Western Ghats).
  • Key Feature: A man-made forest, known for rewilding efforts.

Sudhagad Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Western Ghats between Lonavla and Raigad.
  • Special Features:
    • • Includes Sudhagad Fort and nearby Thanale Buddhist caves (1st century BCE).

Thane Creek Flamingo Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Coastal inlet near Mumbai.
  • Importance:
    • • Maharashtra’s second marine sanctuary after Malvan.
      • Critical habitat for greater and lesser flamingos.

Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Pandharkawada district.
  • Key Features:
    • • Isolated tiger population.
      • Flanked by Penganga River.

Umred-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Nagpur district.
  • Key Role:
    • • Tiger corridor connecting Tadoba-Andhari TR and Nagzira TR.
      • Bounded by Wainganga River to the east.

Other Notable Sanctuaries

Manipur

Keibul-Lamjao National Park

• • Unique Feature:
    • • World’s only floating national park.
      • Integral part of Loktak Lake (Ramsar Site).
  • Special Landscape:
    • • Characterized by floating masses of decomposed vegetation called phumdis.
  • Purpose of Creation:
    • • To conserve the habitat of the brow-antlered deer (Sangai or Dancing Deer, EN), which is also called Manipur’s Eld’s Deer.
  • Vegetation:
    • • Semi-evergreen forests, aquatic vegetation, wetlands.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Sangai deer, hog deer, large Indian civet, Asian golden cat.

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of Manipur

Jiri-Makru Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Between tributaries of the Barak River near the Assam-Manipur border.
  • Major Fauna:
  • Capped langur, Hoolock gibbon.

Kailam Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Bordering Mizoram.
  • Special Highlight:
    • • Rich in hornbill species, including the Great Indian Hornbill.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Hoolock gibbon, barking deer, clouded leopard.

Other Important Protected Areas

Meghalaya

National Parks

Balphakram National Park

• • Location:
    • • South of Garo Hills, near the Indo-Bangladesh border.
  • Landscape:
    • • Plateau, deep gorges, limestone caves, and natural bridges.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Barking deer, Asian golden cat, tiger, marbled cat, wild water buffalo, red panda, elephant.

Nokrek Ridge National Park

• • Location:
    • • Near Tura Peak in West Garo Hills; forms the core of Nokrek Biosphere Reserve.
  • Special Features:
    • • Important Bird Area (IBA).
      • Source region for most rivers of the Garo Hills including Simsang River (Someshwari in Bangladesh).
  • Vegetation:
    • • Evergreen, semi-evergreen, and deciduous forests.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Red panda, Asian elephant, stump-tailed macaque, pig-tailed macaque, hoolock gibbon.

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS)

Other Important Conservation Areas

Mizoram

Tiger Reserve

Dampa Tiger Reserve

• • Location:
    • • In the Lushai Hills (Mizo Hills), western Mizoram.
  • Special Features:
    • • One of the highest clouded leopard (VU) densities in South and Southeast Asia.
      • Recently, tiger presence reconfirmed after none were found in 2018 census.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Tiger, Indian leopard, clouded leopard.
  • Major Avifauna:
    • • Great hornbill.
  • Threats:
    • • Shifting cultivation (jhum), oil palm and teak plantations.

National Parks

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS)

Nagaland

National Park

Intanki (Ntanki) National Park

• • Location:
    • • Near the western periphery of the Barail Range, Nagaland.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Hoolock gibbon, golden langur.
  • Major Avifauna:
    • • Hornbill (notably, Nagaland is called the “land of the hornbills”).

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS)

Odisha

Bhitarkanika Complex

• • Bhitarkanika National Park (NP), Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS), and Ramsar Site (RS) together form a significant wetland ecosystem.
  • Location:
    • • Inundated by Brahmani, Baitarani, and Dhamra Rivers.
      • Gahirmatha Marine WLS separates it from the Bay of Bengal.
  • Key Features:
    • • Second-largest mangrove ecosystem in India (after Sundarbans).
      • Odisha’s second Ramsar Site after Chilika Lake.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Saltwater (Estuarine) Crocodile (Least Concern).
  • Major Flora:
    • • Diverse mangrove species.

Gahirmatha Marine Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location:
    • • Extends from the Dhamra River mouth (north) to the Brahmani River mouth (south).
  • Key Features:
    • • World’s largest nesting beach for Olive Ridley Sea Turtles (Vulnerable).
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Olive Ridley Turtles.

Chilika Lake (Ramsar Site) and Nalbana Bird Sanctuary

Chilika Lake:

• • Type: Ephemeral brackish water lagoon; a shallow bar-built estuary.
  • Location: At the mouth of the Daya River; fringed by Eastern Ghats.
  • First Ramsar Site of India (designated in 1981).
  • Largest coastal lagoon in India and Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Green sea turtle (EN), dugong (VU), Irrawaddy dolphin (EN) (flagship species), Chilika limbless skink (CR).
  • Major Avifauna:
    • • White-bellied sea eagle, flamingos, egrets, grey herons, storks, spoonbills.
      • Largest wintering ground for migratory birds in the Indian subcontinent.
  • Threats:
    • • Siltation (due to littoral drift & river sediments).
      • Decrease in salinity and fishery resources.
      • Spread of invasive freshwater species.
  • Migratory Birds:
    • • Arrive from Caspian Sea, Lake Baikal, Aral Sea, and other regions.

Nalbana Bird Sanctuary (BS)

• • Core Area of Chilika Ramsar wetlands.
  • Special Feature:
    • • Disappears during monsoon (due to inundation) and re-emerges post-monsoon.
  • Importance:
    • • Hosts thousands of migratory birds.

Chilika Development Authority (CDA)

• • Establishment: 1992 by the Government of Odisha.
  • Objective: Restoration and overall development of Chilika Lake.
  • Headed by: Chief Minister of Odisha (Governing Body).
  • Satkosia Tiger Reserve (TR)
  • Composition:
  • Satkosia Gorge WLS + Baisipalli WLS.
  • Location:
  • Where the Mahanadi River cuts through a gorge in the Eastern Ghats.
  • Part of the Mahanadi Elephant Reserve (ER).
  • Vegetation:
  • Moist deciduous forests and riverine forests.
  • Major Fauna:
  • Leopard, Indian wild dog (dhole), sloth bear, Asian elephant, Bengal tiger.

Simlipal Biosphere Reserve (BR), National Park (NP), and Tiger Reserve (TR)

• • Location:
  • Eastern Ghats, Odisha.
  • UNESCO:
  • Part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
  • Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve:
  • Includes Simlipal TR + Hadgarh WLS + Kuldiha WLS.
  • Vegetation:
  • Moist and dry deciduous forests, grasslands.
  • Major Fauna:
  • Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, gaur (Indian bison), four-horned antelope (chausingha).
  • Major Avifauna:
  • Hill myna, crested serpent eagle.

Important Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of Odisha

Other Wildlife Sanctuaries

• • Karlapat WLS: Eastern Ghats, Kalahandi district.
  • Khalasuni WLS: Adjacent to Badrama WLS in Sambalpur district.
  • Kuldiha WLS: Linked to Simlipal NP via small hill ranges.

Quick Revision Pointers:

• • Satkosia → Mahanadi River Gorge + Elephant Reserve.
  • Simlipal → UNESCO BR + Core of Mayurbhanj ER.
  • Chilika + Bhitarkanika → Odisha’s Ramsar sites.
  • Sunabeda → Proposed TR, links Odisha and Chhattisgarh TRs.

Punjab

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS)

Chandigarh

Wildlife Sanctuary

Quick Facts

• • Abohar WLS is unique for being over private land protected by a community (Bishnois) rather than government-owned forests.
  • Blackbuck is sacred to Bishnois and also the State Animal of Punjab.
  • Harike and Nangal WLS are important wetlands recognized under the Ramsar Convention.
  • Chandigarh hosts an urban wildlife sanctuary focused on bird conservation.

Rajasthan

National Parks (NP) and Tiger Reserves (TR)

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS)

Other Notable Sanctuaries

Quick Facts

• • Desert NP: Famous for its Great Indian Bustard (CR) and desert flora and fauna.
  • Keoladeo Ghana NP: Hosts the Siberian Crane (CR), a rare migratory species.
  • Mukundra Hills NP: Key for potential Asiatic Lion reintroduction efforts.
  • Ranthambore: Renowned for its Bengal Tigers, facing threats like poaching and habitat fragmentation.
  • Sariska: Once lost all tigers, but relocated tigers from Ranthambore have been reintroduced since 2008

Sikkim

National Parks (NP) and Biosphere Reserves (BR)

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS)

Other Notable Sanctuaries

Quick Facts

• • Khangchendzonga NP: This park is both a Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is India’s first Mixed Heritage site, recognized for its rich biodiversity and cultural significance.
  • Barsey Rhododendron WLS: Known for its beautiful rhododendron forests, this sanctuary is located in the Singalila Range and has close connections to Nepal and West Bengal.
  • Fambong Lho WLS: A key sanctuary near Gangtok, playing an important role in protecting the diverse flora and fauna of the Khangchendzonga NP.

Tamil Nadu

National Parks (NP), Tiger Reserves (TR), and Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS)

1. Annamalai (Indira Gandhi) NP, TR, WLS

• • Location: Anaimalai Hills.
  • Vegetation: Wet evergreen forests transitioning to shola grasslands.
  • Major Fauna: Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephant, Indian Leopard, Nilgiri Tahr (EN), Lion-tailed Macaque (EN), Gaur, Nilgiri Langur.
  • Threats: Tea and coffee plantations encroaching upon the habitat, and increasing tourism.

2. Guindy NP

• • Location: An extension of the grounds surrounding Raj Bhavan, located in the heart of Chennai.
  • Key Features: Includes Guindy Snake Park and is in proximity to IIT Madras and the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust (30 km away).
  • Vegetation: Tropical dry evergreen forests, dry evergreen scrub, and thorn forests.
  • Major Fauna: Blackbuck (LC), Chital, Jackals.
  • Flagship Species: Blackbuck, a symbol of the park’s conservation efforts.

3. Madras Crocodile Bank Trust

• • Location: Outskirts of Chennai.
  • Key Features: A reptile zoo and research station dedicated to conserving India’s endangered crocodile species: Marsh Crocodile (VU), Saltwater Crocodile (LC), and Gharial (CR).
  • Conservation Efforts: Provides secure nesting beaches for Olive Ridley turtles and conducts research on reptiles.

4. Gulf of Mannar Marine NP

• • Location: Comprising 21 small islands and adjacent coral reefs, situated in the core area of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve (BR).
  • Marine Features: Includes coral reefs, seaweed, seagrasses, salt marshes, and mangroves.
  • Major Marine Fauna: Dugong (VU), Green Turtles, Olive Ridley Turtles. Dugong is the flagship mammal of the park.
  • Threats: Tourism, illegal fishing, coral mining, and unregulated mechanized fishing.

5. Kalakad-Mundanthurai TR

• • Location: Part of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve.
  • Core Zone: The Agasthiyamalai Hill Range forms the core zone of this tiger reserve.
  • Major Fauna: Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Indian Elephant, Gaur, Sambar, Chital, Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-tailed Macaque, Mouse Deer.

6. Mudumalai NP, TR, WLS

• • Location: Northwestern part of the Nilgiri Hills (Blue Mountains) in Nilgiri district. Shares boundaries with Karnataka and Kerala.
  • Vegetation: Tropical moist deciduous, dry deciduous, and dry thorn forests.
  • Major Fauna: Indian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Bonnet Macaque, Sloth Bear, Sambar, Indian Giant Squirrel.
  • Avian Fauna: Indian White-rumped Vulture (CR), Indian Vulture (CR).
  • Threats: Tourism, invasive species like Lantana.

7. Mukurthi NP

• • Location: Situated within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
  • Vegetation: Montane grasslands and shrublands interspersed with sholas.
  • Major Fauna: Nilgiri Tahr (EN), Indian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Nilgiri Marten, Nilgiri Langur.
  • Threats: Invasive species such as wattle and eucalyptus.

8. Sathyamangalam TR, WLS

• • Location: Eastern Ghats, forming a wildlife corridor between the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats.
  • Core Area: Includes the Sathyamangalam and Hasanur Forest Divisions.
  • Major Fauna: Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephant, Gaur, Leopard, Spotted Deer, Blackbuck, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer.
  • Threats: Poaching of tigers and elephants.

9. Srivilliputhur-Megamalai TR

• • Location: Formed by combining the Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel Sanctuary and Megamalai WLS.
  • Key Ecological Role: Crucial for the perennial nature of the Vaigai River.
  • Major Fauna: Tigers that move between Periyar TR and Anaimalai TR.
  • Biodiversity Significance: Part of the Brahmagiri-Nilgiris-Eastern Ghats Ecoregion.

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of Tamil Nadu

Cauvery North WLS

• • Location: North of the Cauvery River, within the Melagiri Hill Ranges.
  • Key Features: A wildlife corridor connecting Male Mahadeshwara Hills (Karnataka), Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Hills (Karnataka), Sathyamangalam WLS, and Nilgiri BR.

Cauvery South WLS

• • Fauna: Grizzled Giant Squirrel, Four-horned Antelope, and Lesser Fish Eagle. These species are exclusive to the Cauvery River ecosystem and its riverine forests.

Chitrangudi Bird WLS

• • Location: Ramanathapuram District, adjacent to Kanjirankulam BS.

Gangaikondam Spotted Deer WLS

• • Location: Tirunelveli District.
  • Key Feature: A major habitat for Spotted Deer (Chital) outside the Western Ghats.

Kadavur Slender Loris WLS

• • Location: Tamil Nadu’s first slender loris sanctuary, established in 2022.
  • Key Fauna: Slender Loris, a small nocturnal arboreal mammal, both Red Slender Loris (EN) and Grey Slender Loris (NT).

Kanyakumari WLS

• • Location: Southern tip of India, to the south of Kalakad-Mundanthurai TR.
  • Key Fauna: Tiger habitat.

Karaivetti Bird WLS

• • Location: Near the left bank of Kollidam River.
  • Key Feature: Conservation of waterfowl species.

Karikilli Bird WLS

• • Location: Kancheepuram District, close to the confluence of Palar and Cheyyar Rivers.

Kodaikanal WLS

• • Location: Forests of Palani Hills in Dindigul and Theni districts.

Megamalai WLS

• • Location: In the Western Ghats, part of the buffer to Periyar TR and Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel WLS.

Oussudu Lake BS

• • Location: Spanning both Puducherry and Tamil Nadu.

Point Calimere WLS

• • Location: Southeastern tip of Nagapattinam District.
  • Key Feature: Focuses on the Blackbuck (LC) conservation.

Pulicat Lake Bird WLS

• • Location: Spanning Nellore District (Andhra Pradesh) and Thiruvallur District (Tamil Nadu).

Other Notable Sanctuaries and Reserves

• • Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel WLS: Established to protect the Grizzled Giant Squirrel (NT), part of the Srivilliputhur-Megamalai TR.
  • Vellanadu Blackbuck WLS: Located in Thoothukudi District, primarily for Blackbuck conservation.

Puducherry

1. Oussudu WLS (Biosphere Reserve)

• • Location: Spans both Puducherry and Tamil Nadu.
  • Ecological Importance: The sanctuary includes a lake ecosystem that is significant for bird conservation and provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife.
  • Flora and Fauna: Known for its diversity of waterfowl and other wetland species.
  • Conservation Significance: Oussudu Lake serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds, and the surrounding area is rich in biodiversity, making it a vital conservation area for both local and migratory species.

Lakshadweep

1. Pitti (Bird Island) WLS

• • Location: An uninhabited coral islet situated 24 km north of Kavaratti, the capital of Lakshadweep.
  • Key Features:
    • • Pitti Island is a bird sanctuary known for its unique marine ecosystem.
      • The island is a safe haven for a variety of seabird species, and it plays a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.
      • It is a significant breeding ground for several seabird species.
  • Ecological Importance: The island, with its coral reefs and pristine environment, is an essential nesting and breeding site for birds, providing an undisturbed sanctuary for these species.
  • Threats: Due to its remote and uninhabited nature, the main threats are minimal but include tourism pressure and the potential impacts of climate change on the island’s ecosystem.

Telangana

1. Amrabad Tiger Reserve (TR) & Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Formerly part of Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, Amrabad TR became part of Telangana post-bifurcation.
  • Size: It is India’s second-largest tiger reserve, second only to Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam TR.
  • Vegetation: Composed primarily of dry deciduous forests interspersed with grasslands.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Tiger, leopard, nilgai, sambar.
      • Yellow-throated bulbul (VU), star tortoise (VU), mugger crocodile.
  • Significance: Amrabad TR is crucial for tiger conservation in southern India.
  • Threats: The proposed uranium mining project by the Telangana government in the region poses significant environmental risks, including contamination of the Krishna River and the displacement of local Chenchu tribes.

2. Chenchu Tribe

• • Background: The Chenchus are a hunter-gatherer community found in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Odisha.
  • Recent Issues: The Telangana government’s plan for uranium mining in Amrabad TR threatens the environment and the livelihoods of the Chenchus. The mining will contaminate the Krishna River, jeopardizing their water and agricultural sources.

3. Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park (NP)

• • Location: A green oasis amidst the bustling Jubilee Hills and Banjara Hills in Hyderabad City.
  • Vegetation: The park is home to dry deciduous forests and is an urban green lung for the city.
  • Major Fauna: Various species of birds, mammals, and reptiles thrive here.
  • Significance: The park offers an important ecological space within an urbanized area, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity and offering a recreational area for the public.

4. Kawal Tiger Reserve (TR) & Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated in the Adilabad district, bordered by the Godavari River to the south.
  • Vegetation: Dry deciduous forests dominate the landscape.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Tiger, leopard, gaur, cheetal, sambar, nilgai, barking deer, chausingha, sloth bear.
  • Threats: The sanctuary faces human encroachment, rampant poaching, illegal wood felling, and habitat loss due to expanding urbanization and agriculture.

5. Mahaveer Harina Vanasthali National Park (NP)

• • Location: Situated on the outskirts of Hyderabad.
  • Significance: This park is dedicated to the conservation of deer species and named after Mahavir, a Jain saint.
  • Fauna: Home to various deer species and other wildlife, it provides an educational and recreational space for locals and visitors.

6. Mrugavani National Park (NP)

• • Location: Situated on the outskirts of Hyderabad, adjacent to Mahaveer Harina Vanasthali NP.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Spotted deer, wild boars, foxes.
  • Significance: A relatively smaller but significant protected area, it serves as a retreat for wildlife amidst the growing city of Hyderabad.

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of Telangana

1. Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated in the Dandakaranya forests in Mulugu district, along the Godavari River.
  • Cultural Significance: The sanctuary is inhabited by the Koya Tribes, and it is famous for the Sammakka Saralamma Jatara (Medaram Jatara), a significant tribal festival held biennially.
  • Flora and Fauna: It supports diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and several species of birds and reptiles.

2. Kinnersani Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Surrounding the Kinnerasani Reservoir on the Kinnerasani River, contiguous with Eturnagaram WLS.
  • Fauna: The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, sloth bears, barking deer, and wild boar.

3. Lanja Madugu Siwaram Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Located on the right bank of the Godavari River, this sanctuary provides a critical habitat for mugger crocodiles.
  • Significance: It plays an essential role in wetland conservation and provides a home for various riverine species.

4. Manjeera Crocodile Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated around the Manjeera Reservoir, which is a man-made structure on the Manjeera River, a tributary of the Godavari River.
  • Fauna: Primarily supports mugger crocodiles (VU) and freshwater turtles.
  • Significance: The sanctuary is a critical habitat for reptiles and serves as a source of drinking water for Hyderabad.

5. Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated on the banks of the Pranahita River, which joins the Godavari River.
  • Fauna: Known for its population of blackbuck (LC), the sanctuary provides crucial protection to the species and supports various other wildlife.
  • Significance: The sanctuary helps conserve the blackbuck population and is critical for maintaining the ecological integrity of the region.

Other Notable Wildlife Sanctuaries in Telangana

• • Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS): A man-made lake sanctuary near Warangal.
  • Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS): Located in the Medak and Nizamabad districts, named after Pocharam Lake.

Tripura

1. Bison (Rajbari) National Park (NP)

• • Location: Located within the Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS), Bison NP was established to restore the natural habitat of the Indian bison (India Gaur), listed as VU (Vulnerable).
  • Vegetation: The park has a tropical semi-evergreen forest, savannah, and bamboo forests, providing diverse habitats for its fauna.
  • Major Fauna:
    • Indian Gaur (Bison), deer, Golden langurs.
  • Ecological Significance: The park contributes to the conservation of the Indian Gaur and other endangered species in the region.
  • Geographical Context: The Gumti River, originating from the Gumti WLS, separates Sipahijola WLS (Clouded Leopard NP) from Trishna WLS. Rudrasagar Lake lies between Sipahijola WLS and Trishna WLS, adding to the region’s ecological complexity.

2. Clouded Leopard National Park (NP)

• • Location: A part of Sipahijola Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS), Clouded Leopard NP is famous for the clouded leopard (VU).
  • Vegetation: The sanctuary comprises woodland with an artificial lake, supporting diverse flora and fauna. It also includes botanical and zoological gardens.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • The sanctuary is famous for the clouded leopard (VU), a species that requires dense forest cover for survival.

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of Tripura

1.Sipahijola Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated south of Agartala, the sanctuary is famous for the clouded leopard (VU), making it an essential site for the conservation of this species.
  • Fauna: In addition to the clouded leopard, it is home to several species of primates, deer, and various birds.
  • Ecological Features: The sanctuary features both natural and man-made landscapes, including a lake and gardens, which attract a variety of wildlife and visitors alike.

2. Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Home to Bison (Rajbari) NP, Trishna WLS is located in the southwestern part of Tripura.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Indian Gaur (Bison – VU), Hoolock Gibbon (EN), Golden Langur (EN), Capped Langur (VU).
  • Vegetation: The sanctuary is characterized by tropical semi-evergreen forests, savannah, and bamboo forests, offering ideal conditions for various species, including Hoolock Gibbon and Golden Langur.

Other Notable Wildlife Sanctuaries in Tripura

1. Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated in the South Tripura region, Gumti WLS is known for its diverse ecosystem, with the Gumti River being a significant feature.
  • Fauna: The sanctuary is home to various species, including mammals, reptiles, and birds, with special focus on riverine species.

2. Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated in the North Tripura district, Rowa WLS is known for its rich biodiversity, providing important conservation efforts for both flora and fauna.
  • Fauna: The sanctuary supports several species of mammals and birds, making it a hotspot for nature lovers.

Uttar Pradesh

1. Amangarh Tiger Reserve (TR)

• • Location: Located as a buffer zone of Jim Corbett National Park (NP), Amangarh TR is an important extension of Jim Corbett NP.
  • Historical Context: After the creation of Uttarakhand from Uttar Pradesh, Jim Corbett NP was transferred to Uttarakhand, and Amangarh remained part of Uttar Pradesh.
  • Fauna: Tigers, leopards, and other terrestrial mammals are found here due to its strategic position between the core areas of Jim Corbett NP and the adjoining forests.

2. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (TR) and National Park (NP)

• • Location: Situated in the Terai belt along the Indo-Nepal border, Dudhwa TR combines Dudhwa NP, Kishanpur WLS, and Katarniaghat WLS into one integrated reserve.
  • Geographical Context: The Sharda River separates Dudhwa NP from Kishanpur WLS, while the Ghaghara River separates Dudhwa NP from Katarniaghat WLS.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Swamp Deer (Barasingha), Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Hog Deer, Tiger, Rhinoceros, Elephants.
      • The Indian rhinoceros was reintroduced from Pobitora Sanctuary (Assam).
      • Black-crested bulbul (LC) has also been spotted after many years.

3. Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (TR)

• • Location: Located in the Terai belt near the Indo-Nepal border.
  • Geographical Context: The Sharda Sagar Dam lies to the east, and the Sharda River (a tributary of the Ghaghara River) lies on the northeast.
  • Vegetation: The region is rich in Sal forests, tall grasslands, and swamps, which are periodically flooded.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer, Blackbuck, Sambar, Rhesus Macaque, and Gharial.

4. Ranipur Tiger Reserve (TR) and Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Approved as Uttar Pradesh’s 4th TR, Ranipur TR is located in the Bundelkhand region and will be the first TR in this area.
  • Vegetation: The reserve is covered in tropical dry deciduous forests.
  • Fauna:
    • • Tigers, Leopards, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Chinkara.
      • While Ranipur WLS has no tigers of its own, it is frequented by tigers from nearby Panna TR, making it an important corridor for tiger movement.

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of Uttar Pradesh

1. Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated in Sant Kabir Nagar district, Bakhira WLS is a floodplain wetland formed by the Rapti River.
  • Ecological Importance: The sanctuary serves as a wintering ground for several migratory bird species.

2. Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Located in the Kaimur Range between the Ganges and Son rivers, this sanctuary is known for its varied landscapes.

3. Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Spanning across Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Bijnor, and Meerut districts, this sanctuary lies on the western bank of the Ganges River.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Swamp Deer (VU), Smooth-Coated Otter (VU), Ganges River Dolphin (EN), Gharials (CR).

4. Jai Prakash Narayan (Surhatal) Bird Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: A wetland near the confluence of the Ghaghara and Ganges Rivers.

5. Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Spanning across Sonbhadra and Mirzapur districts, it extends along the Kaimur Range and serves as an important corridor for tigers and elephants.
  • Ecological Significance: The sanctuary is contiguous with Chandraprabha WLS and Kaimur WLS of Bihar.

6. Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated in the Upper Gangetic Terai plains of Bahraich, Katerniaghat WLS acts as a corridor linking the tiger habitats of Dudhwa NP and Bardia NP (Nepal).
  • Fauna:
    • • Tigers, Gharials (CR), Mugger Crocodiles (VU).
      • The Girwa River serves as a natural habitat for Gharials and is sympatric with Muggers.

7. Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Contiguous with Pilibhit TR, the Sarda River separates Kishanpur WLS from Dudhwa NP.
  • Fauna:
    • • Swamp Deer (VU), Bengal Florican (CR), Lesser Florican (EN).

8. Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Located along the MP-UP border, this sanctuary lies on the Betwa River near the Rajghat Reservoir.

Ramsar Sites & Notable Bird Sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh

1. National Chambal Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Located along the Chambal River, this sanctuary is at the tripoint of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.

2. Nawabganj Bird Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated in Unnao district, this sanctuary is also known as Shahid Chandra Shekhar Azad BS.
  • Status: Ramsar Site.

3. Okhla Bird Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated at the Okhla Barrage on the Yamuna River in Noida, Gautam Buddh Nagar district, Uttar Pradesh.

4. Parvati Aranga Bird Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: An ox-bow lake formed by the Ghaghara River.

5. Saman Bird Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: A seasonal oxbow lake on the Ganges floodplain.

6. Samaspur Bird Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: A perennial lowland marsh in Rae Bareli district.

7. Sandi Bird Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: A freshwater marsh designated as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International.

8. Shekha Bird Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: A perennial lake near Aligarh formed after the creation of the Upper Ganges Canal.

9. Sur Sarovar Bird Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS)

• • Location: Situated on the right bank of the Yamuna River near Agra.

Uttarakhand

1. Gangotri National Park (NP)

• • Location: Situated in the upper catchment of the Bhagirathi River, Gangotri NP is one of the most scenic parks in India.
  • Geographical Context: The park area connects with Govind NP and Kedarnath WLS, and contains the Gaumukh Glacier, the origin of the Ganges River.
  • Habitat: The park’s habitat is a blend of coniferous forests, alpine meadows, and glaciers.
  • Vegetation: The vegetation includes Pine, Deodar, Fir, and Rhododendrons.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Snow Leopard, Asian Black Bear, Brown Bear, Musk Deer, Blue Sheep, Himalayan Tahr.

2. Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (NP and WLS)

• • Location: Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, this sanctuary is named after Govind Ballabh Pant, an Indian freedom fighter.
  • Management: The Snow Leopard Project initiated by the Government of India is managed at this sanctuary.
  • Vegetation: Himalayan Broadleaf Forests, Conifer Forests, and Alpine Shrubs and Meadows.
  • Flora: Pine, Deodar, Cedar, Oak, Maple, Walnut, Horse Chestnut, Hazel, and Rhododendron.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Snow Leopard (VU), Leopard, Musk Deer, Himalayan Tahr, Steppe Eagle, Bearded Vulture.

3. Jim Corbett National Park (NP) and Corbett Tiger Reserve (TR)

• • Location: Jim Corbett NP is the oldest national park in India, situated in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand.
  • Historical Context: Established in 1936, it was named after the famous hunter and naturalist Jim Corbett. The park is recognized as the first to be included in Project Tiger.
  • Core and Buffer Areas: The core area of Corbett TR is formed by Jim Corbett NP, while the buffer zone includes Sonanadi WLS.
  • Rivers: Major rivers such as Ramganga, Sonanadi, and Kosi flow through the park, and the Ramganga Reservoir is located within the park.
  • Vegetation: Dense moist deciduous forests, marshy depressions, and grasslands.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Bengal Tigers, Elephants, Leopards, Himalayan Black Bears, Himalayan Goral, Rhesus Macaque.
      • Crocodiles and Gharials have been successfully bred in captivity and released into the Ramganga River.
  • Threats: Invasive weeds and poaching remain major challenges.

4. Terai Arc Landscape (TAL)

• • Geographical Extent: The Terai Arc Landscape (TAL) stretches for 810 km, from the Yamuna River in the west to the Bhagmati River in the east, and includes the Shivalik Hills, Bhabhar areas, and Terai Flood Plains.
  • Protected Areas: TAL includes Corbett TR, Rajaji NP, Dudhwa TR, Valmiki TR, and several protected areas in Nepal (such as Bardia WLS, Chitwan NP, and Sukhla Phanta WLS).
  • Purpose: TAL aims to protect key species such as the Tiger, Asian Elephant, and Great One-Horned Rhinoceros, by restoring forest corridors and facilitating wildlife migration.
  • Ecological Significance: TAL spans across Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Nepal.

5. Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (BR) and National Park (NP)

• • Location: Nanda Devi BR is India’s second Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Programme. The core area is formed by Nanda Devi NP and Valley of Flowers NP.
  • Geographical Context: Nanda Devi NP is situated around the towering Nanda Devi Peak (7816 m) and includes the Nanda Devi Sanctuary, a glacial basin surrounded by a ring of peaks.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Status: Nanda Devi NP is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Major Flora: Fir, Birch, Rhododendron, and Juniper.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Himalayan Musk Deer, Mainland Serow, Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan Black Bear.

6. Rajaji National Park (NP) and Tiger Reserve (TR)

• • Location: Rajaji NP extends over the Shivalik Ranges and the Indo-Gangetic Plains, with the Ganga and Song Rivers flowing through it.
  • Historical Significance: Named after C. Rajagopalachari, the second Governor-General of independent India.
  • Geographical Context: The park marks the north-western limit of the distribution of both elephants and tigers in India.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Elephants, Bengal Tiger, Sloth Bear, Black Bear, Indian Langur, Indian Porcupine.

7. Valley of Flowers National Park (NP)

• • Location: Valley of Flowers NP is a high-altitude Himalayan valley situated in the transition zone between Zanskar and the Great Himalayas.
  • Ecological Significance: The valley is renowned for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers.
  • Vegetation: Alpine vegetation.
  • Major Flora: Orchids, Poppies, Marigold, Daisies, Rhododendron, and Birch.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Asiatic Black Bear, Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Brown Bear, Red Fox, and Bharal (Blue Sheep).

Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS) of uttarakhand

1. Askot Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Situated in the Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand.
  • Purpose: The sanctuary was established to conserve the Musk Deer (listed as Endangered).
  • Habitat: The area is known for its high-altitude alpine meadows and coniferous forests.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Musk Deer (EN), along with a variety of other Himalayan species.

2. Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: This sanctuary stretches from Gaurikund to the Kedarnath Mountain, located in the Rudraprayag District.
  • Purpose: The sanctuary is set up primarily for the conservation of the Musk Deer (EN).
  • Rivers: The Mandakini River flows through the sanctuary, originating from the Chorabari Glacier near Kedarnath and is further fed by the Vasukiganga River at Sonprayag. The Mandakini River meets the Alaknanda River at Rudraprayag, which later joins the Bhagirathi River at Devaprayag, eventually forming the Ganges River.
  • Habitat: High-altitude alpine meadows, coniferous forests, and riverine habitats.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Musk Deer (EN), along with other species of the Himalayan region.

3. Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: This sanctuary is situated near the Rajaji Tiger Reserve and is part of the Shivalik Elephant Reserve (ER).
  • Geographical Context: Located in the Shivalik Hills, it lies between Rajaji Tiger Reserve and Sonanadi WLS.
  • Purpose: The sanctuary plays a significant role in preserving the elephant corridors and maintaining the rich biodiversity of the region.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Elephants, along with other wildlife typical of the Shivalik ER.

4. Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Sonanadi WLS is contiguous with the Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve (TR) and serves as a buffer zone to the reserve.
  • Habitat: The sanctuary is known for its moist deciduous forests and grasslands, contributing significantly to the overall biodiversity of the region.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Tigers, Leopards, Elephants, Musk Deer, and various other species.

5. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Located in the Almora District of Uttarakhand.
  • Geographical Context: Situated in the central Himalayas, this sanctuary is known for its panoramic views of the Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Trishul Peaks.
  • Habitat: The sanctuary has a mix of oak, rhododendron, and coniferous forests.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Musk Deer, Wild Boar, Common Langur, and various bird species.

6. Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary

• • Location: Situated near Rajaji Tiger Reserve and close to the hill station of Mussoorie.
  • Habitat: The sanctuary includes temperate forests, grasslands, and rivers.
  • Flora and Fauna: Known for its rich biodiversity, the sanctuary harbors species such as Himalayan Tahr, Leopard, Wild Boar, and various species of migratory birds.

West Bengal

1. Buxa National Park (NP) & Tiger Reserve (TR)

• • Location: Lies in the Gangetic Plains, with its northern boundary running along the Indo-Bhutan Border.
  • Vegetation: Includes evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist and dry deciduous forests, as well as savannah and grasslands.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Gaur, Sambar Deer, Clouded Leopard, Indian Leopard.
  • Major Flora:
    • • Bengal Florican, Lesser Adjutant, Great Hornbill, Amur Falcon.
  • Threats: Flooding and poaching of elephants.

2. Gorumara National Park

• • Location: Located in the Eastern Himalayas’ Terai belt.
  • Significance: Known for its population of Indian Rhinoceros.
  • Major River: The Jaldhaka River, which is a tributary of the Brahmaputra.
  • Vegetation: Rolling forests and riverine grasslands known as Duars, as well as moist deciduous forests.
  • Major Flora:
    • • Sal, Common Teak, and Grasslands.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Indian Rhinoceros, Gaur, Asian Elephant, Sloth Bear, Chital, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Hog Deer.

3. Jaldapara National Park

• • Location: Situated on the banks of the Torsa River at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas.
  • Significance: Home to the largest population of Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros after Kaziranga NP in Assam.
  • Adjacent Wildlife Corridor: The nearby Chilapata Forests act as an elephant corridor between Jaldapara and Buxa TR.
  • Vegetation: Savannah with tall elephant grasses.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Indian Rhinoceros, Leopard, Elephants, Sambar, Barking Deer, Spotted Deer, Hog Deer, Gaur.

4. Neora Valley National Park

• • Location: Situated in Kalimpong, part of the Himalayas.
  • Significance: Known for being the habitat of the Red Panda (EN).
  • Vegetation: Primarily Himalayan broadleaf forests.
  • Major Flora:
    • • Rhododendron, Bamboo, Oak, Ferns, Sal.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Indian Leopard, Black Bear, Sloth Bear, Golden Cat, Barking Deer, Himalayan Flying Squirrel, Thar.

5. Singalila National Park

• • Location: Situated on the Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling.
  • Vegetation: Includes Coniferous, Broadleaf, and Mixed Forests.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Red Panda, Yellow-Throated Marten, Pangolin, Himalayan Black Bear, Clouded Leopard, Takin.

6. Sunderban Biosphere Reserve, National Park, Tiger Reserve & Reserve Forest

• • Location: The Sundarbans is the largest delta and mangrove forest in the world, situated in the Ganges Delta.
  • Significance: It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a critical ecosystem for biodiversity.
  • Boundaries: On the west, it is bounded by the Muriganga River, and on the east by the Harinbhahga and Raimangal Rivers.
  • Vegetation: Dominated by Mangrove forests, with the Sundari mangrove tree being a notable species.
  • Major Fauna:
    • • Royal Bengal Tiger, Saltwater Crocodile, River Terrapin, Olive Ridley Turtle, Ganges River Dolphin, Hawksbill Turtle, Mangrove Horseshoe Crab.